Pabna Sept 18, V7N - Due to continuous heavy rains over the past few days, several areas of Pabna Municipal Headquarters are experiencing significant waterlogging. The drainage system has collapsed, preventing the quick outflow of water, resulting in streets and homes being flooded. Pedestrians and city dwellers are facing major difficulties due to these conditions.

According to the Ishwardi Meteorological Department, Pabna recorded 223 mm of rainfall in four days from Friday to Monday (September 16). As a result, water overflowed from drains onto roads and into houses, making it difficult for vehicles and pedestrians to navigate safely.

Several areas including Shivrampur Buffalo Depot, Kalachandpara, Shalgaria, Atua Mor, Beltala Road, and Gopalpur are particularly affected by the flooding. The water rises even with a small amount of rain, and while it recedes after two or three days, the repeated flooding continues to cause hardship for residents.

Local residents, such as Himel Rana of Shalgaria, expressed frustration, stating that the municipal authorities have neglected to renovate the drainage system, leading to frequent flooding. Salim Hossain, a businessman from Mujahid Club area, added that waterlogging has closed businesses and restricted movement, while autorickshaw driver Sohel Mia noted the dangers of driving on submerged roads, where potholes cause accidents.

Achint Kumar Ghosh, General Manager of Latif Group, pointed out that water from Pabna Municipal area is supposed to drain through canals under the Buridah culvert near Doharpara and Arifpur, but encroachment has narrowed these canals, slowing drainage. He called for an expansion of the canals to solve the problem.

In response, Pabna Municipality Executive Engineer Nazmul Haque acknowledged that garbage accumulation and rising soil in the drains contribute to the flooding, and emphasized the need for regular cleaning. He also noted that parts of the drainage system need renovation and new construction.

Pabna Water Development Board Supervising Engineer Sudhanshu Kumar Sarkar shared that a project to dig the Ichamati River and its connecting canals, supervised by the army, is ongoing. This project, expected to be completed by June 2027, is aimed at preventing future waterlogging in the district.

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