Once-vibrant Marikhali River in Narayanganj's Sonargaon upazila turned into a garbage dump due to encroached upon both banks of the river, constructing buildings and dumping waste. Photo: Observer
Once a bustling waterway, the Marikhali River, a tributary of the Brahmaputra, is facing severe environmental degradation in Narayanganj's Sonargaon upazila, due to encroachment, pollution, and a significant loss of navigability.
Locals said that the river, which once supported agricultural activities and provided water for domestic use, has become increasingly polluted and it could soon vanish completely if the situation is not addressed. The river's water has turned black due to industrial waste, making it unsuitable for farming or other uses.
Over the years, influential individuals have encroached upon both banks of the river, constructing buildings and dumping waste, turning the once-vibrant river into a garbage dump.
Historically, large boats carrying goods used to sail on the Marikhali River. Communities along the river in Sonargaon's municipal area, as well as four nearby unions, relied on its water for agriculture and daily household chores. However, with the increasing pollution and accumulation of waste, the river has lost its former vitality. Locals can no longer even walk along its banks due to odor.
According to reports, around 30 villages with a population of nearly 50,000 people once depended on the river for their daily needs. But with industrial waste poisoning the water, it has become unusable. Encroachment has blocked the flow of the river and as a result, its depth has drastically reduced. The clear water of the river has turned murky and pollution levels are rising daily.
Locals said that the dumping of market waste in the river every day is further obstructing its flow. With encroachment, land filling, and continuous pollution, the river is on the brink of disappearing entirely. If this continues, the locals fear the river will be completely lost within the next few years.
They also alleged that prominent figures have taken over the riverbanks, building shops and homes, and continuing to dump waste into the water, exacerbating the situation. As a result, the Marikhali River has now become a dumping ground. They urged authorities to remove the garbage and dredge the river to restore its flow and clean water. They have requested intervention from the local administration and relevant authorities to alleviate their suffering.
Mohammad Hossain, Chairman of the Environmental Protection and Development Society, stated that the river has now turned into a dead canal due to the daily dumping of waste from factories and markets in Sonargaon. They have already appealed to higher authorities to restore the river's flow and depth through dredging. Additionally, signs and banners have been placed near the waste dump areas to raise awareness and encourage pollution control.
Sonargaon Upazila Nirbahi Officer Farzana Rahman assured that necessary measures will be taken soon to remove the encroachment and pollution from the Marikhali River.
