The scenic Musapur Closure and its surrounding beach in Companiganj upazila, once celebrated as a premier tourist destination, have been nearly obliterated by severe river erosion and devastating floods.
Located at the estuary of the Chhota Feni River along the coast of the Bay of Bengal, the spot was popularly known as “Mini Cox’s Bazar” for its unique coastal atmosphere.
The destruction began in August 2024, when a sudden surge of upstream water, combined with heavy rainfall, created intense pressure on the Musapur Regulator. The regulator, built at a cost of Tk250 crore, saw its 23 gates collapse, eventually causing the entire structure, including a bridge, to sink into the river.
This collapse has fundamentally altered the geographical landscape of the region, leading to the rapid disappearance of forest land and beaches.
Environmental and economic toll
The area’s unique 3,282-acre forest, which served as a sanctuary for wildlife like foxes and wildcats, has been significantly diminished.
According to the agriculture and forest departments, between 1,000 and 12,000 acres of farmland and approximately 25 to 30 acres of forest land have already been lost to the river.
Horon Mia, a local businessman, noted that over a hundred shops once thrived on the closure, but the lack of tourists has forced most traders to relocate.
Residents such as Nur Uddin reported the loss of acres of agricultural land and expensive solar panels, while Abdul Mia, who lost his home and farm, described the plight of many now living as nomads on embankments after their schools, mosques, and markets were swallowed by the river.
Official response and public demand
SM Refayet Jamil, executive engineer of the Water Development Board, stated that Geo bags have been deployed to reconstruct damaged embankments and infrastructure. He emphasised that the construction of a new sluice gate is vital to curbing further erosion.
During a visit to the site, Water Resources Minister Shahiduddin Chowdhury Anee assured the public that the Prime Minister is aware of the situation.
Describing the regulator as a matter of “life and death” for the people of Noakhali, he promised the construction of a new sluice gate.
However, local residents, including Jamal Uddin, argue that mere promises are not enough.
They are demanding the construction of a permanent and robust defence wall to protect the remaining forest and beach, fearing that without it, Musapur’s natural beauty may be permanently erased from the map of Noakhali.
