Residents of Satkhira municipality are grappling with severe waterlogging following 20 days of continuous rainfall. The municipality and low-lying areas of Sadar upazila are submerged, forcing locals to navigate on rafts for essential activities. Sanitation systems have collapsed, homes are flooded, and waterborne diseases are spreading. Locals blame the dysfunctional municipal drainage system and unplanned fish enclosures in the suburbs for worsening the crisis.
Fish farmers report that heavy rains have washed away fish worth crores of taka from over 200 enclosures. Additionally, 6,000 hectares of Aus paddy and vegetable fields have been inundated. Acting officer of Satkhira Meteorological Office, Julfikar Ali Ripon, reported 464 millimeters of rainfall recorded in the district between July 1 and July 20.
Joint member secretary of the District Citizens’ Committee, Alinur Khan Babul, highlighted that unplanned urbanization and illegal fish enclosures inside the municipality have blocked water flow, leaving one-third of the town submerged. He noted that lack of proper drainage and encroachment on rivers and canals have caused prolonged suffering, with thousands of families trapped in flooded areas.
Dr. Alhaj Abul Kalam Babla, vice-president of the District Citizens’ Rights Development Committee, blamed unauthorized construction and indiscriminate fish farming for the crisis. He urged deep canal excavation and removal of nets and barriers to restore water flow. District Primary Education Officer Ruhul Amin reported that 63 primary schools across the district are waterlogged, with all furniture submerged.
Satkhira Deputy Commissioner Kawsar Aziz warned fish enclosure owners against blocking canals for shrimp farming, urging them to dismantle illegal barriers immediately. “If evidence is found of obstructing canal water flow, strict legal action will be taken,” she said. Cleanup operations are underway, including the removal of nets obstructing water flow.
