2 upazilas in Sylhet flooded as Kushiara embankments collapse
Despite efforts by local authorities to contain the flow using sandbags and soil, the damage could not be prevented
Several areas in Sylhet's Zakiganj and Beanibazar upazilas have been submerged after embankments along the Kushiara River collapsed at multiple points due to rising water levels and continuous rainfall.
The flood situation is rapidly worsening as river water continues to enter residential and agricultural areas.
Last night (1 June), the river breached embankments at five points in Zakiganj upazila after water levels crossed the danger mark earlier in the day.
Keep updated, follow The Business Standard's Google news channel
Despite efforts by local authorities to contain the flow using sandbags and soil, the damage could not be prevented.
In Zakiganj's Manikpur, Maijkandi and Birasree areas, homes, roads and farmland are underwater. Zakiganj Bazar has also been submerged.
Residents reported that early this morning (2 June), the river broke through dykes in Rarai, Bakharshal and Loharmahal villages, with water rushing into adjacent areas. Locals in several areas are attempting to reinforce the dykes with sandbags.
According to the upazila administration, around 100 feet of embankment at Rarai, 40–50 feet at Bakharshal, and 30–40 feet at Loharmahal have collapsed.
A control room has been opened to manage the situation. Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Mahbubur Rahman said shelter centres have been opened and preparations for evacuation are underway.
In neighbouring Beanibazar upazila, the Kushiara embankment at Angarjur village in Kurarbazar Union has also broken, flooding several villages.
Water Development Board data show that water levels at several monitoring points have crossed danger marks. At Amolshid, the river is flowing at 16.83cm against the danger level of 15.40cm. At Sheola and Fenchuganj, water is also above danger levels.
Meanwhile, due to hilly torrents from Meghalaya and continuous rain, the Dhalai River's water level is rising. Authorities have closed the Sadapathar Tourist Centre in Companyganj as a precaution. Companyganj UNO Azizunnahar said it will remain closed until conditions improve.
