RAJSHAHI, Nov 20: Once hailed as a model residential zone in Rajshahi City, Upashahar is now grappling with severe drainage problems that have left residents frustrated and exposed to health hazards.
Most of the drainage lines in the neighbourhood, built decades ago, are now either clogged or completely defunct. In some places, large trees have grown over the drains, further obstructing water flow. Many houses lack proper sewerage connections, resulting in household waste being dumped directly into open drains - a practice that has turned the area into a breeding ground for pollution and disease.
Sector 01 of the area, in particular, has become a hotspot of environmental degradation and urban discomfort due to years of neglect.
Residents say the situation has persisted for years, with little to no intervention from the authorities. Despite repeated appeals, no effective steps have been taken to restore the drainage system. While road elevation work continues in parts of the neighbourhood, the drains remain untouched, deepening the crisis.
"Every time it rains, water floods our yards and even enters our homes," said Ali Azgar, a resident of Sector 01. "During monsoon, life becomes unbearable. We need a permanent solution."
The lack of maintenance has led to a cascade of problems - stagnant water, mosquito infestation, foul odours, and an overall decline in living conditions. Locals fear that if the issue remains unresolved, the area's reputation as a planned and clean residential zone will be permanently tarnished.
Several residents pointed out that while the main road drains are being elevated, the backyard drains of individual homes have been ignored. This imbalance in infrastructure development has caused homes to sit lower than the roads, making water-logging inevitable during rainfall.
Sheikh Abu Zafar Tutu, a social worker and long-time resident of the area, voiced his concern: "We earnestly appeal to the honourable administrator of Rajshahi City Corporation, the chief engineer, and all relevant departments to address this long-standing issue. The drainage crisis in Sector 01 is not just a local inconvenience - it reflects broader challenges in urban planning and civic management."
He added, "Solving this problem will not only benefit Upashahar residents but also set a positive example of responsive and people-centric urban governance."
Locals say they are not seeking promises on paper but real, on-ground action. They urge the authorities to treat the matter with urgency and ensure a sustainable solution that restores the area's livability and dignity.
