Jashore: The government is set to install eight additional high-powered submersible pumps at two locations in the Bhabodah area to alleviate waterlogging in Jashore district. This initiative aims to pump out stagnant water, thereby facilitating agricultural activities in the region.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Water Development Board (WDB) has received the necessary approval from the Planning Commission and is preparing to float a tender for the procurement of these pumps within this week. Polash Kumar Benarji, Executive Engineer of the WDB, expressed expectations to have the 35 cusec German-manufactured pumps operational by the middle of next month at the Bhabodah sluice gates. This move is intended to clear excess water, allowing farmers to cultivate Boro paddy this year.
“We will install five pumps upstream of the 21-vent regulators at Kopalia point and three others at the eight-vent regulators at Bil Khukshia to address the stagnant water affecting Manirampur, Avaynagar, and Keshabpur upazilas,” stated Mr. Benarji. Currently, four high-powered submersible and 16 low-powered pumps are being used, but these are deemed insufficient for the area’s irrigation needs.
According to sources, the Planning Commission has sanctioned a project worth Taka 45.41 crore from the GOB fund. This project aims to directly or indirectly bring 73,000 hectares of land under cultivation by resolving the waterlogging issue. Additionally, it promises to enhance river communication and fish cultivation in the area. As part of the project, the WDB will also acquire an amphibious multi-purpose dragger for continuous dredging and will repair 18 sluice gates.
The Delta Plan-2100 identifies waterlogging as a significant challenge in the southwestern part of Bangladesh, with Bhabodah being particularly vulnerable. Residents of over 150 villages in the Manirampur, Keshabpur, Avaynagar, and Sadar upazilas have suffered from prolonged waterlogging. In response, the government has approved a separate Taka 140 crore project for re-digging five rivers and canals, under the supervision of the Bangladesh Army, to mitigate this persistent issue.