Kalni River Erosion: Over 300 families at risk

More than 300 families are at risk of becoming homeless due to erosion of the Kalni river in Ajmiriganj upazila of Habiganj.

The erosion has reached the doorsteps of many people's homesteads, while acres of agricultural lands are also being devoured.

Many have lost everything and taken refuge in the homes of their relatives, while others resorted to take shelter in khas land.

Pirojpur village in the upazila has been the most affected.

Visiting the area recently, this correspondent found many villagers setting up bamboo fences to protect their homes from erosion.

Harun Mia, 55, a farmer in the village, said he was well-off until 15 years ago, when 112 decimals of his land was devoured by Kalni, along with 1.5 acres of agricultural land. He then relocated and rebuilt his house on 42 decimals of land.

"I had everything -- my house, cow shed, paddy storage room. Kalni took it all," Harun said.

Three years ago, this village, along with several others in the vicinity, was again affected by erosion, with 200 families losing their homes to the river. In the last six months alone, 15 families lost their homes.

"If this continues, all of Pirojpur will be lost to the river at some point," said Dhalai Mia, a resident.

"We have urged authorities to take measures, but no visible steps have been taken yet," said Mahbub Mia, another resident.

Shamim Hasnain Mahmud, executive engineer of Water Development Board in Habiganj, said a recommendation on preventive measures has been made and is awaiting approval.