Standing by erosion-hit people in Sirajganj

Riverbank erosion is a common problem along the Jamuna river in Sirajganj during the monsoon. Last month, the river has reportedly devoured homes and farmlands in the villages of Brammongram, Arkandi, Pachil and adjoining areas of Khukni, Jalalpur and Koijuri unions in Shahzadpur upazila, rendering over 100 families homeless. People have lost their homes, arable lands, belongings and properties. The authorities concerned have been placing sandbags to protect the areas hit by river erosion. However, the insufficient quantity of sandbags is not enough to protect the vast riverbanks and erosion victims.

Like any other natural hazards, river erosion is beyond human control and cannot be predicted in advance. And like any other natural calamity, it destroys lives and property. This should be treated like any other natural disaster and the affected should be provided with help including food and shelter until they are capable of fending for themselves.

Sirazi Shahjahan,

Malibagh, Dhaka,

mshaju001@gmail.com