Rampal’s Christian community gets access to safe drinking water
For the families of this marginalised settlement, the new water source marks the end of long-standing hardship.
Residents of the Christian community in Rampal upazila of Bagerhat have gained access to safe drinking water after years of struggling with salinity and scarcity. A deep tube well installed through private initiative was inaugurated today (22 November) at Christian Para of Gilatola Bazar.
The initiative was undertaken by 'Save the Sundarbans Foundation' Chairman and BNP nomination aspirant for the Rampal-Mongla constituency, Lion Dr Sheikh Faridul Islam, in the presence of local leaders and community members.
For the families of this marginalised settlement, the new water source marks the end of long-standing hardship.
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Local resident Shanti Biswas said, "To collect just one pitcher of water we moved from house to house, often facing various obstacles. We even appealed to the government and NGOs, but nothing worked.
Today, through the support of Lion Dr Sheikh Faridul Islam, we finally have safe drinking water." she added.
Another resident, Tarapad Mistri said Dr Faridul Islam has always stood beside people during their joys and sorrows.
"I went to his house one day and explained our water crisis. Within just 15 days he arranged this tube well. He is a man with a big heart. Ten years ago, he also helped by arranging medical treatment for me, which saved my life." he added.
Local residents said many people with the ability to help often remain indifferent, but Dr Faridul Islam has shown genuine concern for their well-being.
Lion Dr Sheikh Faridul Islam said the Christian community had long been deprived of safe water.
"One morning they came to my house seeking help. After visiting the area, I saw their suffering and arranged a deep tube well with a 200-yard connection to bring water directly into their neighbourhood," Faridul Islam added.
"They are not outsiders, they are part of our society. I have provided safe water from personal initiative, and now they will no longer have to wander for drinking water. I have been beside them before and hope to remain so in the future."
