Messy Dhamalia Canal work may affect crops, lead to erosion

SYLHET, Mar 16: A number of locals alleged that contractors concerned were not excavating a canal in a haor area of Biswambharpur upazila under Sunamganj district.
They also expressed their disappointment as the work will not be completed in the timeframe set by the Water Development Board (WDB).
Besides, the local farmers are at great risk of saving standing Boro paddy as the rainy season is pretty close, they added.
The budget for the Dhamalia Canal excavation has been set at Tk 29 million.
The 8.0 km long excavation will help facilitate water to recede and save crops.
The disorganised work would be of no benefit for the croplands. Rather it would cause harm for the poor farmers, said a number of villagers.
Moreover, the Krishnanagar village adjacent to the project site would be at risk of massive erosion, they further alleged.
After getting specific allegations from the locals, the UNO of Biswambharpur Samir Biswas visited the site at Krishnanagar and asked for keeping the work suspended.
Besides, the possible consequences of the excavation were discussed at a meeting of the upazila Law and Order Committee on Wednesday last.
The UNO said the matter is being brought to the notice of WDB. The work should be done in consultation with the local stakeholders, he said, adding, none should be affected.
An official of the WDB, however, said the project was taken up for ensuring quick recession of water.
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