Severe erosion sparks panic among char people at Rajarhat

RAJARHAT, KURIGRAM, July 23: The 'ruthless Teesta' has once again revealed its devastating form in the char areas along the river in Rajarhat Upazila of Kurigram District. 

In the face of relentless and severe river erosion, the historic Mandolpara Jam-e-Mosque in Char Bidyannad Union was swallowed by the river within moments. For the people of the Teesta banks, the biggest question now is how much more loss must occur before a permanent solution is found.

The scene unfolded like a nightmare on Tuesday (21 July) afternoon before the eyes of locals. The mosque, which had long been at risk due to its proximity to the Teesta, finally succumbed to the river's fierce current and erosion. Within a short time, the entire mosque structure collapsed and sank into the river.

Local residents said that erosion had been increasing at an alarming rate at various points in Bidyannad Union over the past few days. The erosion was particularly severe in the Mandolpara area. They had no chance to make any preparations to protect their homesteads or the mosque.

Following the mosque's disappearance into the river, a shadow of mourning and panic has descended over the area. The voices of devout worshippers reflect a sorrowful tone of helplessness. One resident said with emotion, "Our only wish was that even if we lost our homes, at least the house of Allah would remain. But the Teesta has taken that too. Where will we pray now?"
Local residents allege that the map of Bidyannad Union has been shrinking every year due to Teesta erosion. Hundreds of families are being rendered destitute as they lose homesteads, cultivable land, mosques, madrasas and various social institutions. Yet they claim that no permanent erosion control measures have been taken for a long time.

The erosion-affected victims have demanded urgent steps including the construction of a sustainable embankment. They fear that without effective initiatives, vast areas of Char Bidyannad Union could soon be swallowed by the river.