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Several embankments in Batiaghata upazila of Khulna, including the city protection embankment near Kachubunia in Jalma Union, are facing a serious risk of breach as water levels in the Shibsha River continue to rise due to heavy rainfall and upstream flow.
The worsening condition of these embankments has heightened fears of flooding across vast low-lying areas of the upazila and parts of Khulna city if urgent protective measures are not taken, according to local residents.
A low-pressure system over the Bay of Bengal, combined with persistent rainfall and increased upstream water, has pushed river levels above the danger mark.
Strong currents over the past several days have further accelerated erosion along vulnerable stretches.
Among the most at-risk areas are Tetultala, Batiaghata Bazar, Baruitala in Sadar Union, Bhadailbunia, Bujhbunia and Sheyalidanga in Baliadanga Union, Baronpara and Maitbhanga in Gangarampur Union, as well as Baroaria-Sundarmahal and Raypur in Surkhali Union.
Residents fear that a breach at any of these points could inundate large parts of Jalma Union, surrounding areas of the upazila, and even key installations in Khulna city.
People living along erosion-prone riverbanks say they are passing anxious days as the threat looms large.
Locals noted that the city protection embankment was constructed by closing both ends of the Kazibacha River to shield Khulna city from tidal surges.
However, they allege that the altered river course has significantly disrupted the geographical and environmental balance of Jalma Union.
According to residents, the diversion contributed to the silting of the Nalua-Pashur River and intensified erosion, which has already swallowed thousands of acres of land in Jalma Mouza, along with homes in Jalma and Kachubunia villages.
Many displaced families are now living in makeshift shelters along the government embankment road after losing their homes and farmland to river erosion.
Batiaghata Upazila Nirbahi Officer Thandar Kamruzzaman said he personally visited the vulnerable sections after receiving reports of erosion.
“I immediately contacted officials of the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB). They inspected the site, conducted measurements, and assured that necessary steps will be taken to protect the embankment,” he said.