Only 1hr rain waterlogs low lying RCC areas

Due to a lack of proper drainage system, most of the low-lying areas have been waterlogged after only one hour of incessant rain in Rajshahi city yesterday causing untold sufferings to the dwellers.

Several city streets went under water while some thoroughfares were turned into “small canals”, said witnesses.

Raw sewage mixed with the clogged rainwater spread bad odour in several places and posed health risks as well.

The streets in Shalbagan, Chhoto Bongram, Boro Bongram, Kajla, Talaimari, Kashiadanga, Sastitola, Shaheb Bazar, Sagorpara, Hetomkhan, Dori Khorbona, Terokhadia, Bilshimla and Uposhohor areas went under water.

Local met office recorded 31.8mm of rainfall from 6:00am to 4:00pm while they recorded 26mm in only one hour from 8:00pm to 9:00pm.

Knee-deep water was seen in many houses.

On the other hand, many people were seen catching fishes with joy from fields clogged with water on different spots as ponds overflowed.

The slum dwellers in different places including Stadium and Rajshahi University areas were the worst sufferers.

Meanwhile, growers living in the suburbs said the rainfall damaged vegetables including gourd, bitter gourd, brinjal and green chili.

Jute farmers are, however, happy as they are getting much water for rotting the plants.

Talking to The Daily Star, a Rajshahi City Corporation official, wishing not to be named, admitted that unabated filling of ponds, and poor and faulty drainage system led to the waterlogging.

He said most of the drains are stuffed with garbage, while many are closed due to works for utility services.

Nurtaj Mahal of the city's Baganpara said they were facing waterlogging for one month. “Sometimes we have to wade through waist-deep and sometimes knee-deep water on the road.”

Shawkat Ali of Upashahar area said the road went under water even after a little rain due to an ongoing construction of a drain.

Similar situation was found in Naodapara, Dingadoba, Bulonpur, Mohishbathan, Panchabati, Koyerdara, Kathaltola, Baliapukur, Shantibag, Beelshimla, Meherchandi, Musroil, and Ramchandrapur.

Acting RCC mayor Nizam-ul Azim claimed the situation was not serious.

The city has a large number of drains and a new drainage project is underway, he added.