Over 100 cattle swept away by tidal surge in Munshiganj; 36 carcasses recovered

Over one hundred cattle were swept away by a tidal surge in a canal near Bhati Balaki village in Gazaria upazila of Munshiganj district yesterday afternoon (23 May), estimating financial losses of over Tk1.25 crore.

So far, 36 carcasses of cattle have been recovered.

The incident occurred around 4pm following a tidal surge in the canal between the village and adjacent grazing fields.

Locals said that the cattle reared for livelihood by farming families used to cross the canal to graze on the nearby char land.

On Friday, when the cattle were returning in the afternoon they were caught in the strong current and swept away.

Shyamal Khan, a witness, said, "Most residents here depend on agriculture and animal. All of us raise cattle. The animals were swept away while crossing the canal. So far, bodies of 36 dead cattle have been found, but around 65 are still missing. Farmers are devastated."

Mohasin, a farmer who lost four cattle, said, "I've never seen anything like this in my life. I am ruined. My only source of income is gone—I've been left destitute."

Abu Taleb Sujan Khan, another affected farmer, said, "Like every day, the cattle crossed the canal for grazing in the morning. But while returning, the tidal surge swept nearly 100 cattle away. Many farmers are still desperately searching for their animals."

Hossendi Union Parishad Chairman Monirul Haque Mithu, said "I have instructed local union members to investigate the matter."

Gazaria Upazila Agriculture Officer Md Foysal Arafat Bin Siddique said, "We stand beside the affected farmers. We will support them as much as possible from our position."

Gazaria Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md Ashraful Alam said, "So far, 36 dead cattle have been recovered. Efforts are ongoing to assess the total damage. The farmers have suffered significant losses and we will provide assistance to the extent possible from the administration."