Life on the shifting char lands of the Padma River remains a constant struggle. Residents in Shibchar Upazila battle erosion, poverty, weak connectivity and recurring natural shocks.
The fragile islands rise and vanish in cycles. As land erodes in one place, new chars emerge elsewhere, but each gain often follows the loss of homes and livelihoods for many families, locals said.
Displacement can last years. Some households wait more than a decade to rebuild after losing their homesteads, only to face fresh risks when they move onto newly formed land.
Agriculture and fishing are the main sources of income, but both depend heavily on nature. Floods, drought and river erosion can abruptly cut earnings, leaving families without support.
Poor connectivity is a major constraint. Most areas lack paved roads, forcing residents to rely on boats. Travel becomes hazardous during the monsoon when river currents intensify, disrupting access to hospitals and schools.
Seasonal flooding compounds the crisis. As water levels rise, homes are submerged or washed away, forcing families to seek temporary shelter elsewhere.
Visits to Charjanazat, Kathalbari and Madbarerchar areas show limited access to basic services. Roads are scarce, electricity is largely unavailable and safe drinking water remains in short supply.
“Without boats, we cannot move. Taking a patient to hospital quickly is very difficult, and minor illnesses often become serious,” said Charjanazat Union resident Ali Fakir.
“Our suffering goes unnoticed. Every year we lose our homes to erosion and start again, but development does not reach us,” said Kathalbari Union resident Sujai Chowkidar.
Kathalbari Union resident Sohel Bepari said river erosion had destroyed his homestead several times. He now survives by farming on others’ land and fishing.
“It feels like we live in a separate world where basic services are still a dream,” he said.
Education and healthcare remain weak. Many students cannot attend school regularly due to transport challenges, and some children leave education early to support their families.
College student Mim Akter said commuting from the char to the upazila centre for studies is difficult.
“Regular travel is not possible. Education and healthcare facilities need to be improved here,” she said.
Local representatives say durable embankments, better transport links, electricity and safe water supply are essential for the region.
Observers warn that without long-term planning, including infrastructure development, expanded health and education services and alternative employment opportunities, living conditions in the char areas are unlikely to improve.
For residents of the Padma chars, survival remains a daily test, shaped by uncertainty and repeated loss.
