Barishal:The river-dependent Manta community in Barishal, who have lived for generations on boats, is set to receive a permanent burial ground. This development comes after years of uncertainty and struggle to find a suitable resting place for their deceased.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Barishal Sadar Upazila administration has initiated the establishment of a cemetery on nearly one acre of government-owned land adjacent to the Singherkathi Ashrayan Project. The project is also receiving assistance from Tungibaria Union Parishad.
The Manta community, which has resided on boats across the rivers around Laharhat, Charbaria, and adjoining areas for over five decades, has faced numerous challenges, including the lack of a designated burial ground. This has often forced grieving families to rely on other people's land or, in desperate situations, consign bodies to the river.
The new cemetery will address these difficulties by providing a designated place for the Manta people to lay their deceased relatives to rest with dignity and According toir religious customs. Moreover, the facility will also be accessible to other destitute and landless individuals in need of a burial place.
Community leaders Jasim Sardar and Zakir Hossain have expressed gratitude for the initiative, describing it as a major relief. They hope for the cemetery's timely completion and operation, emphasizing the importance of being able to bury their loved ones with dignity.
Barishal Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Farida Sultana mentioned that work on the cemetery is progressing and could be inaugurated soon. She highlighted that the administration is committed to improving the lives of disadvantaged communities, with cooperation from local residents being crucial for such welfare initiatives.
The cemetery project is seen as a significant step toward resolving a long-standing humanitarian issue faced by the Manta community, providing them with a sense of security and recognition of their dignity.