Khulna, Sep 12 (UNB)- Severe erosion is threatending an embankment along the Kopotakkho River in Paikgasa upazila of Khulna triggering fear of flooding in vast areas.
 
Locals urged the authorities concerned to take measures to renovate the embankment as a large area could be inundated if it gets breached. Residents of the Hachimpur Ashrayan Center, located on the banks of the Kopotakkho River, are currently at high risk.
 
The situation deteriorated last Monday when the barriers made for dredging Morichchap River in Assasuni upazila of Satkhira, were removed allowed its waters to directly strike the dam of the river adjacent to the Hachimpur Ashrayan Center.
 
Continuous water pressure over the past few days has caused severe erosion of the embankment. Around 200 feet of the embankment has already collapsed into the river, and several large cracks have appeared in other parts.
 
Torrab Hossain Khan from Debduar village said the sudden pressure from the Morichchap River's waters caused the erosion.
 
Monirul Islam expressed concern that if early measures are not taken to prevent further erosion, there is a high risk of extensive flooding in Hachimpur, Debduar, Shahpara, and other parts of Chandkhali Union.
 
Another local Aminur Rahman from Debduar village emphasised the urgent need for using geo-bags to prevent further erosion.
 
Raju Howlader, sub assistant engineer of the Water Development Board, informed that the breach is not in the main embankment but assured that the relevant authorities have been informed to take necessary measures to prevent damage.
 
He confirmed that prompt action would be taken after receiving further instructions from higher authorities.
 
Upazila Nirbahi Officer Maheera Naznin said that discussions have been held with senior officials of the Water Development Board, Satkhira district and Assasuni upazila administrations regarding the breach.
 
The local administration is closely monitoring the situation and has informed the relevant higher authorities to take swift action, she informed.
 
End/UNB/Corr/SU/F