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Surma riverbank erosion threatens lifeline in Sunamganj
With the advent of the monsoon, riverbank erosion along the Surma has intensified alarmingly, posing a grave threat to the Chatak-Andhariganj-Sunamganj road, a vital communication lifeline for thousands in the region.
Local residents have voiced growing concerns that large sections of the road may collapse into the river at any time, severing a crucial transport route that links several communities.
The road, already weakened by the devastating floods of 2022, had shown some signs of recovery after repair works commenced in late 2024 under the supervision of the Local Government Engineering Department (LGED).
But, a fresh erosion is now rapidly undoing those efforts.
A recent visit by the UNB correspondent revealed that the erosion has reached an alarming stage near the mazar (shrine) adjacent to Mallikpur Government Primary School.
Over the past three to four days, the river has edged perilously close to the paved sections of the road.
The situation has worsened with the partial collapse of the western approach to the Machukhali Bridge, heightening fears of a major accident if immediate protective interventions are not made.
Locals have reported visible cracks in the newly repaired stretches of the road, with some parts already beginning to subside.
“The road is at high risk of being washed away, which would leave the surrounding communities completely cut off,” said a resident of Mallikpur.
People from Mallikpur and Machukhali have appealed to the authorities to act without delay. They are calling for strong, lasting measures to curb the erosion and protect the road from further degradation.
When contacted, Md Rafiqul Islam, Upazila Engineer of Chhatak, said he has visited the erosion-affected areas and acknowledged the severity of the situation.
“Necessary steps will be taken promptly to prevent further damage,” he assured.
As the river continues to encroach, residents remain on edge, hoping that urgent action will save the road that connects their lives, livelihoods and essential services.