Dam swallows in Andharmanik river in Kalapara

In Patuakhali’s Kalapara, the flood control embankment is swallowing in the Andharmanik river. Only some of the country site is left. The cracks are at least another 25 to 30 feet. This is the condition of polder no. 46 of Paubo of Jalalpur village of Nilganj union of the upazila. There is panic in the area due to the fear of flooding. Due to the increase in the intensity of the breakdown, the farmers have lost sleep at night.

Locals said that the dam has suddenly disappeared into the river. The breakdown still continues. Now there’s only one left. The main dam, including the top, has been breached. Sadarpur, Akkelpur, Saidpur, Majidbaria, Dariyapur, Hajipur and Laskarpur villages of the union are at risk due to the gradual increase in the speed of erosion. Just a few months ago, an emergency protection was given with a geo bag filled with sand-cement to protect the dam, but the other part is breaking down.

Md Jasim Mia, a resident of Jalalpur village, said most of the people in the area are farmers. Agriculture is their only source of livelihood. If this embankment is broken, the people of 8 villages will suffer losses. Md. Miraj of Hajipur village said that if the dam is not repaired quickly, the water of the river will enter the Aman paddy and sink. Those concerned should come forward to get rid of this danger. Chairman of Nilganj Union Parishad Md Babul Mia said the matter has been reported to PAUBO.

Md Arif Hossain, executive engineer of The Water Development Board Kalapara, said an SO was immediately sent to the spot after hearing the news of the breach of the dam at Jalalpur in Polder No. 46. He also visited. Now steps are being taken to repair the broken part on an urgent basis, he told reporters.