Erosion along the Brahmaputra River in Gaibandha’s Fulchhari Upazila has sparked concern over the safety of the Balaasi Ferry Terminal, which is now at risk as the riverbank erodes just 15 metres from the facility. Built at a cost of Tk157 crore, the terminal is facing severe damage, and while the Water Development Board has attempted to use blocks to prevent further erosion, the effectiveness of these efforts remains uncertain.
Locals report that the erosion began unexpectedly about two months ago. Initially, nearly 100 metres of land near the terminal was lost to the river. More recently, an additional 40 metres have eroded, exacerbating the situation. This ongoing erosion not only threatens the ferry terminal but also jeopardises local businesses, warehouses, and other structures in the vicinity.
Business owners and residents near the terminal have raised alarm as the riverbank continues to erode incrementally. Many are considering relocating their businesses, although they face challenges in moving permanent structures.
Rezaul Karim, a businessman from Balaasi Ghat, expressed growing concern, stating, “The river is steadily encroaching on the land. With the rate of erosion increasing, the situation could become even more dire once the monsoon arrives.”
Aslam, a local resident, added, “The river is steadily eroding the land in front of us. Fields, including my maize crops, are collapsing into the river. We’re not receiving any assistance or checks from authorities for the people living by the riverbank.”
Farmer Azgar Ali echoed the worries of others, saying, “Several of my fields have already been swallowed by the river. I’m very concerned. I’m not sure if I’ll be able to harvest my maize, especially since I’ve borrowed money to cultivate it.”
Residents are urgently calling for action to protect the riverbank before the monsoon season begins. They warn that, without prompt intervention, the ferry terminal and the surrounding areas may soon be lost to the river.
Mohammad Shariful Islam, Executive Engineer of the Gaibandha Water Development Board, confirmed that steps have been taken to curb the erosion. “We’ve informed the higher authorities about the situation, and engineers have already visited the site. Further necessary measures are being planned,” he said.
The Balaasi Ferry Terminal, completed in 2021, serves as a critical transportation hub for people travelling from northern Bangladesh to Dhaka and other regions. The terminal, which cost Tk157 crore to build, was constructed in two phases. However, due to navigation issues and changes in the course of the Jamuna River, the ferry service had been suspended in 2005. Now, with the terminal facing erosion, its long-term viability is under question.
Locals are worried that the river’s current will strengthen with the arrival of the monsoon, making it even harder to control the erosion. They are calling for immediate riverbank protection measures upstream and downstream to prevent further damage.
