Rain eases, but old Dhaka, low-lying areas still remain inundated

Although the rain has stopped and floodwater has receded from many parts of the capital, residents and businesses in Old Dhaka continue to suffer from severe waterlogging, muddy streets and damaged roads. 

Comparatively low-lying areas in the capital including Narinda, Mitford, Sadarghat, Imamganj and Chawkbazar still remain inundated for hours after the rainfall, leaving commuters, traders, workers and patients struggling to move.

A visit to the affected areas found that roads near the Buriganga River, one of Dhaka's principal drainage outlets, remain waterlogged despite their proximity to the river. Residents say inadequate drainage infrastructure and blocked drains prevent rainwater from flowing out quickly, allowing water to remain on roads long after rainfall has ended.

Roads surrounding Mitford Hospital and much of Dhaka South City Corporation (DSCC) Ward No. 30 were still submerged in knee-deep water.

 Shop owners had placed bricks and bamboo poles in front of their businesses to help customers enter, while others were trying to drain water by opening drain covers or installing temporary pipes.

Sadarghat-Lalbagh-Chawkbazar road has also become difficult to use because of damaged pavement, thick mud and accumulated garbage. 

Residents said indiscriminate dumping of waste continues to clog drains, making the situation worse after every spell of heavy rain.

The area is one of Old Dhaka's largest wholesale business centres, housing pharmaceutical markets, chemical warehouses, courier services, hardware shops and food wholesalers. Thousands of people and hundreds of goods-laden vehicles use the route every day, but prolonged waterlogging and broken roads are disrupting commercial activities.

Fruit trader Asadul Islam of Mitford told The Daily Observer heavy rain regularly floods the front of his shop.