Increasing number of crop protection dams in Sunamganj haor region raises concern

SUNAMGANJ, Dec 17 (UNB): Despite clear instructions from higher authorities, concerns are growing over the increasing number of crop protection dam projects in the haor (wetland) areas of Sunamganj district.
Crop protection dams are built to protect crops from early floods and landslides. Haors are wetland ecosystems found in the north-eastern part of Bangladesh. Sunamganj district is famous for its numerous haors.
Recently, the Adviser to the Ministry of Environment and Climate, Syeda Rizwana Hasan, and the Chairman of the district committee for crop protection dams, Deputy Commissioner Dr. Mohammad Ilias Mia, visited the region and instructed local officials to avoid taking up unnecessary projects.
However, it appears that these directives are not being followed, with the number of approved projects continuing to rise.
According to local government records, the number of approved crop protection dam projects in the haor region had ballooned to 675 by December 12, 2024, even though the initial plan was for 600 projects.
It is likely the number may increase even further, potentially reaching 700 projects.
This surge in projects comes despite previous statements by the authorities that only essential projects would be undertaken this year.
The Water Development Board has also sought an initial allocation of Tk 1.25 billion (125 crore) from the government for the renovation and repair of 534 kilometers of crop protection embankments across 53 haors in the current season.
The funds will be used to repair and renovate existing dams, as well as to address major breaches in the haor. The construction was set to begin on December 15 and is expected to be completed by December 28.
Local residents and environmental groups have expressed concerns that many of these projects are unnecessary and could harm the natural balance of the haor ecosystem.