At least 80 families residing along the banks of the Bhairab River in Jashore are living in constant fear as their homes face imminent collapse due to severe river erosion. Nights are sleepless, and days are filled with anxiety as chunks of land and properties worth over Tk8 crore have already been lost to the river. 

The residents blamed illegal sand extraction for their plight, accusing powerful individuals of exploiting the river's resources unchecked. Despite repeated complaints, they alleged that authorities have failed to take effective action to protect them.  

On Sunday morning, local organisation ‘Jan Udjog Jessore’ held a press conference by the Bhairab River near the suburban Dak Bungalow. Speakers highlighted how the traditional river, once a lifeline for many, has turned into a destructive force due to unchecked human intervention.  

They pointed to illegal dredging and sand extraction in areas such as Dhaka Road Bablatla Bridge, Birampur, Old Kasba Ghoshpara, and Barandipara Bridge. Local leaders and Awami League affiliates, with alleged backing from the administration, profited immensely from these activities, earning lakhs of taka.  

While the environmental consequences were not immediately clear, the residents are now paying the price. Entire sections of land have slipped into the river, destabilizing homes and displacing families.  

A survey conducted by ‘Jan Udjog Jessore’ identified 80 families severely impacted, with 50 documented in detail. Seven families have already left their homes, while others continue living on the edge, risking further loss.  

One of the worst-affected is Keramat Ali, a microbus driver whose family built a home with 16-foot piling 18 years ago. During last year’s monsoon, the rear portion of the house collapsed into the river, causing damages worth Tk 2 million. His wife, Hafiza Begum, described the sleepless nights they endure, fearing the entire structure might fall.  

Asadul Islam, another victim, lamented the lack of action despite lodging complaints with the district administration and the Water Development Board. Promises of compensation from the authorities have remained unfulfilled.  

Community members alleged that influential individuals, including local Awami League affiliates, continue illegal sand dredging, further worsening the erosion. Out of fear, victims are reluctant to name those responsible.  

At the press conference, labour leader Mahbubur Rahman Majnu read a statement on behalf of ‘Jan Udjog Jessore’ convener Engineer Nazir Ahmed. Speakers, including journalist and freedom fighter Rukunuddaulah, Mahila Parishad leader Suraiya Sharif, and others, called for urgent action to stop illegal sand extraction and compensate affected families.