River Erosion in Coastal Khulna Leaves Families Homeless

At a glance
- The Water Development Board embankment gave way near Botbunia Bazar in Khulna’s Dacope upazila at about 8 pm on Sunday, October 11, under pressure from rising tidal water.

• The breach left 15 families severely affected, with some losing their homes and others dismantling their houses and moving belongings to higher ground.
• Families are sheltering outdoors and facing food shortages, according to UNB.
• After the tide receded, Water Development Board workers placed sand-filled geo-bags to temporarily block the water. Reinforcement work is continuing, but officials say the embankment remains at risk of another collapse.

Context

Cracks appeared in the embankment before the 40-metre section collapsed into the Dhaki River. Tidal water then inundated nearby areas. The Water Development Board temporarily stopped the flow with sand-filled geo-bags during low tide and began work to stabilise the damaged section with blocks and additional geo-bags. Local officials warned that the embankment could collapse again, leaving nearby residents exposed to further flooding and erosion. Affected families are now taking shelter in the open.

Why It Matters

For the families who lost homes, the breach is an immediate crisis of shelter, food and safety. For the wider area, the temporary barrier has stopped the water for now, but the reported risk of another collapse leaves residents facing continued uncertainty.

What We Think

A stopgap barrier may hold back water for a moment. However, it cannot give displaced families a secure home or lasting protection. The urgent measure of response is whether the breach is properly reinforced and families receive practical support while they wait in the open.