After enduring three years of seasonal waterlogging, approximately 300 families in Ward No-2 of Barni union under Tungipara upazila in Gopalganj district have finally found relief. The prolonged issue, which disrupted the daily lives of residents, including students, farmers, and livestock owners, was resolved following the intervention of Gopalganj-3 MP SM Jilani.
Long-Standing Problem
The waterlogging problem began when the outlet of an underground culvert, which drained rainwater directly into a nearby river, was blocked with soil and sand about three years ago. Locals allege that the culvert beneath Nasir Road in Barni union was intentionally filled up by a neighbouring villager, identified as Babul Sheikh, in an attempt to occupy government land. Despite repeated appeals to local representatives, the problem persisted, causing severe waterlogging during the rainy season.
MP's Intervention
The issue came to light after a local youth posted a video on Facebook highlighting the waterlogging and the hardships faced by residents. The video caught the attention of MP SM Jilani, who immediately instructed local BNP leaders and activists to take action. Acting on the MP's directive, BNP and its affiliated organizations conducted a day-long operation on Monday to remove the soil and sand blocking the culvert, restoring the natural drainage system and allowing accumulated water to flow out.
Among those present during the operation were Tungipara Upazila BNP President Sheikh Salahuddin Ahmed, Organizing Secretary Moktar Hossain, Upazila Jubo Dal Member Secretary Aminul Islam, Barni Union BNP President Jahangir Kabir, General Secretary Oliur Rahman Khan, and other local leaders and activists.
