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Severe waterlogging in the Allardarga area of Daulatpur upazila, Kushtia district, has compelled authorities to temporarily close two schools amid rising health concerns.
Nearly 1,500 students from Allahrdarga Secondary School and the private Tressel English Version School, both in the affected area, face serious health risks due to prolonged water accumulation following incessant rains.
The school premises, including ground-floor classrooms of Allahrdarga Secondary School, remain submerged in stagnant water mixed with rotting garbage, emitting a strong, unbearable stench, according to UNB.
The foul odour has made it increasingly difficult for students to stay in classrooms, leading to serious disruptions in academic activities.
School officials have attributed the problem to the absence of a proper drainage system in the area, which has caused persistent waterlogging. Several students are reportedly suffering from skin diseases and other health complications as a result.
Md Piash, a student of class nine, said, “We have to walk through the water to come to school and go back home the same way. I’ve developed skin infections on my hands and feet. Many students have stopped coming to school.”
Prashon Ahmed Tanim, an eighth-grade student of the school, said, “Due to the stagnant water, classes are not being held properly. The headmaster has announced a temporary closure of the school as per the request from the students.”
Kamrul Hasan, headmaster of Allardarga Secondary School, said, “We face some waterlogging every monsoon, but this year it’s much worse. If immediate drainage is not arranged, academic activities may have to be suspended for several more days. For now, the school will remain closed from Wednesday. We aim to resume classes on Sunday.”
Parents expressed frustration, stating that despite their repeated complaints to the local administration, they have not received any effective action. They urged immediate intervention to drain the water and clean the premises.
A local resident alleged that landfilling for new buildings in the area has blocked natural drainage channels, causing water to accumulate even after light rain.
Selim Chowdhury, chairman of Hogolbaria Union Parishad, said, “I have raised the issue several times at upazila coordination meetings. Still, no effective steps have been taken. Both the union parishad office and the two schools are struggling to function under these conditions. Today, both schools have declared closure.”
Though the Daulatpur Upazila Secondary officer could not be reached over the phone, the academic supervisor of the Daulatpur Upazila Secondary Office, Kamal Hossain, said, “The education officer has already visited the schools. Necessary steps will be taken promptly.”
Daulatpur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Abdul Hai Siddique said, “Measures will be taken to address the issue.”