Dwellers of Char Nizam, cut off by Meghna, struggle for survival 

•    Critically ill patients risk lives crossing turbulent waters.
•    Dropouts, child marriage and labour haunt island children.
•    Earthen roads under rural programme ease movement slightly.
 
CHAR FASSON, BHOLA, Aug 14: Residents of Char Nizam, a remote island in Dhalchar Union of Char Fasson Upazila, have long been struggling with poor communication and limited access to basic services.
The island, separated from the mainland by the Meghna, lacks proper roads, healthcare facilities, safe drinking water and sanitation. Residents say they often have to travel by trawler to reach the upazila headquarters for healthcare.
The situation becomes particularly difficult during the monsoon, when the Meghna turns rough and boat communication with the mainland is sometimes disrupted.
Inside the char, most roads are unpaved and in poor condition. Muddy roads make walking difficult during the rainy season, while vehicles often cannot move through the area.
Residents said poor communication has also affected children's education. Many children drop out of school, while early marriage, child labour and other social problems remain concerns.
They said the lack of healthcare facilities is particularly worrying. Critically ill patients and pregnant women often have to be transported by trawler to the mainland, sometimes facing serious risks on the way.
Against this backdrop, the construction of several dirt roads under the government's rural infrastructure maintenance programme has brought some relief to the residents.
Char Fasson Upazila Nirbahi Officer Romana Afroze said the administration was working on a priority basis to improve living conditions in the remote area.
“The only way to reach the mainland is by engine-powered trawler or boat. During the monsoon, crossing the Meghna becomes extremely risky and sometimes completely cuts off the char,” she said.
She said there were no developed or paved roads inside the island, forcing residents to walk through mud.
“The administration is working to improve the living standards of char residents. We are also taking measures to prevent child marriage,” she added.