Brahmaputra Embankment Collapses Again in Chilmari, Sparking Panic
The right-bank protection embankment of the Brahmaputra River in Chilmari, Kurigram, has suffered another collapse, sparking panic among local residents.
Around 35 metres of the embankment between Kanchakol Bazar and Putimari collapsed around midnight on Thursday (September 24). Cracks and collapses have appeared at three locations within a short distance over the past week, putting around 600 metres of the embankment at serious risk of erosion.
According to the Water Development Board (WDB), cracks and collapses have appeared at four locations along at least 200 metres of the 600-metre stretch. The embankment was built on a weak structure, while the river’s main current runs close to the right bank, causing repeated collapses.
The embankment also collapsed on July 1, 16 and 20. The WDB then used sand-filled geobags to prevent further damage. Last week, around 28 metres near Kanchakol Bazar collapsed, while another 30-metre section near Putimari Bazar developed cracks after geobags shifted. Before repairs could begin, another 35-metre section collapsed on Thursday night.
Mominul Islam, a Kanchakol resident, said, “The water has been rising for several days. At the rate the erosion is continuing, a large part of the embankment could disappear into the river if steps are not taken quickly to stop it.”
WDB officials visited the site on Friday. Executive Engineer Rakibul Hasan said, “Cracks and collapses have appeared at four locations along a stretch of about 600 metres.” He said approval had been sought for repairs and emergency erosion-control work would begin with sand-filled geobags once approval is received.
