Irregularities and mismanagement in different development projects, sluggish implementation, frequent extension of deadlines and the use of substandard materials are nothing new in our country. The people of Jashore district alleged serious irregularities in the construction of many bridges and culverts over the Bhairab River that have badly affected their lives and livelihoods, according to media reports.
The existence of the Bhairab River, the lifeline of Jashore, is now threatened. The government took dredging work to revive the river which is in its death throes because of rampant grabbing and pollution. A total of 51 bridges and culverts constructed over the river are apparently impeding the dredging work. In reality, the Bhairab River started shrinking gradually since the 1980s when bridges and culverts were built one after another over the river.
Later, the river-filling and its subsequent grabbing played a big part in reducing the width of the river. Some 51 unplanned bridges and culverts have held back the course of the Bhairab River. There are 34 bridges in Jashore sadar upazila, 16 in Chowgachha and one in Kaliganj of Jhenidah.
51 bridges and culverts
constructed over the
river are apparently
impeding the dredging work
A large part of the river had been filled up for the bridge, allowing grabbers to feast on. The river has been shrunk because of the bridge and many parts of it have also been occupied. Those bridges and culverts have reduced the Bhairab in width, resulting in pollution and grabbing of the river, local say.
In fact, the construction of bridges and culverts in an unplanned way has caused the river to shrink. As a result, its flow has decreased drastically. In the 1980s, big cargo ships from Khulna used to carry goods to Jashore town through using this river.
Now it is possible to cross the river on foot. And grabbers have occupied the dried-up portion. The width of the Bhairab River has gradually reduced to 100-120 metres from 250-300 metres. In the urban portion, its width has decreased all the more. Thus, the river is facing the threat of disappearance. The proper implementation of the river dredging project will play an important role in improving lifestyle of the people in this region. It will also contribute to the economic and environmental development.
It is unfortunate when we see in the name of development schemes, rivers, canals, beels, and ponds are being filled up around the country. Our rivers must be saved to protect our country. The government must dredge the Bhairab River immediately and go for action against all irregularities and corruption in dredging work.