Padma River Devours 30 Homes as Severe Erosion Ravages Lalpur

A severe riverbank erosion has occurred in Lalpur of Natore amid rising water levels in the Padma River. At least 30 houses and a large amount of cropland in the upazila’s char areas have already been washed away by the river. The severe erosion occurred on Tuesday (September 1) at the Padma char of Nawsara Sultanpur in Ward No. 1 of Bilmaria Union.

According to local sources, the strong current of the Padma River caused houses and croplands in Bilmaria Char to disappear into the river within moments. Many families have been rendered destitute after suddenly losing their homesteads to the erosion. Saidul Islam, a local resident affected by the erosion, said, “Nine of my own houses have been washed away by the erosion. After losing our homes, we have somehow taken shelter with our family on a nearby char.” Anwar Hossain, a member of Ward No. 1 of Bilmaria Union Parishad, said 30 families in Nawsara Sultanpur Char lost everything within moments due to the strong current caused by the rising river water. More than 100 other homesteads and cultivated lands in the char are now at serious risk of erosion.

Professor Siddiq Ali Mintu, chairman of Bilmaria Union Parishad, said the affected families are being monitored. The matter has already been brought to the attention of the higher authorities for measures to prevent further erosion and provide immediate relief assistance.

Lalpur Upazila Executive Officer (in charge) Md. Abir Hossain said necessary measures are being taken to provide overall assistance to the affected people and minimise the damage on behalf of the government.