Rajshahi, March 6, (V7N) – Unseasonal river erosion along the Padma River has intensified in Charghat Upazila, Rajshahi, threatening villages, agricultural lands, and protective embankments in the Chandanshahar and Gopalpur areas.

In recent weeks, large sections of the riverbank dams have collapsed, washing away agricultural land and endangering critical infrastructure. Local residents have urged authorities to take immediate protective measures to prevent further devastation.

Locals say unregulated sand extraction has altered the river’s course, accelerating erosion at an unusual rate. Resident Azim Uddin warned that if the embankment fails, Chandanshahar and Gopalpur villages could be submerged in the rainy season.

“The erosion of the Padma doesn’t usually happen like this during the dry season. We fear the situation will become catastrophic in the monsoon,” said Rafiqul Islam, another resident, calling on the local administration and Water Development Board for urgent intervention.

On-site observations revealed that: 100 feet of riverbank along a 1 km stretch near Gopalpur and Chandanshahar (Ward 9, Charghat Municipality) has collapsed into the river. Another 100 feet has developed deep cracks, putting hundreds of bighas of farmland at risk. Erosion continues despite low water levels, raising concerns for the upcoming monsoon.Partha Sarkar, Sub-Divisional Engineer of the Water Development Board (Rajshahi), assured that officials would inspect the affected areas and implement necessary measures to prevent further damage.

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