Massive erosion threatens 5 villages in Sirajganj
At least 60 metres of earthen structure in spar - 2 area on the western bank of the Jamuna at Meghai point under Kazipur upazila collapsed on Monday, threatening massive erosion in the downstream areas of the spar.
Sources said the structure collapsed due to strong current in the river that marked a rise following heavy rain and onrush of water from upstream in the last few days.
About 25,000 people of five villages--Saultola, Biaracharpara, Muslimpara, Khudbandhi and Meghaiin the downstream areas of the spar fear massive erosion.
Water Development Board officials said Jamuna engulfed at least 50 dwelling houses and other establishments in the areas in the last seven days. Besides, many other homesteads and establishments are now under erosion threat, they added.
While visiting the spar site, this correspondent found that labourers of the WDB were trying to protect the areas from erosion by dumping sacks of sands.
WDB official Arifur Rahman said the earthen structure collapsed during repair work of the spar. He said the authorities concerned gave an emergency work order to "AKMSS Joint Venture" to complete repair works of spar no 2 and spar no 3 at Meghai point by June this year. But the construction firm failed to complete the work in time.
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