Posted on March 9, 2026
Residents affected by river erosion have urged authorities to dredge the River Ghaghat according to its historical course without altering its direction, as preparations for dredging are expected to begin after Eid. They believe such steps could help reclaim thousands of acres of land lost to the river over the years while maintaining its natural flow.
The Ghaghat is an important waterway stretching about 236 kilometres through Nilphamari, Rangpur and Gaibandha districts. It originates from the River Teesta in Jaldhaka upazila. Once a busy navigable channel, the river has become heavily silted and partially dry in many areas, turning into what locals describe as a “dead canal” during the dry season. This situation has created problems for navigation, agriculture and flood management.
“Due to lack of water, there are no fish, and we cannot cast our nets,” said Rabdas Majhi, a fisherman from Barabil Union, pointing to the economic hardship faced by communities that rely on the river for their livelihoods.
Experts warn that even a slight rise in water levels during the monsoon could heighten the risk of erosion and flooding because the river is no longer easily navigable. Over the years, silt buildup has blocked the river’s natural drainage system, contributing to seasonal flooding while also causing low water levels during dry months.
Historically, the Ghaghat has played a vital role in the region’s irrigation and drainage network. Around 135 years ago, the then Maharaja of Dimla, Janakiballabh Sen, dug the 10-kilometre Shyamasundari canal in memory of his mother and connected it to the Ghaghat. The canal remains a key waterway that helps drain Rangpur city.
While previous governments have attempted various restoration projects, locals continue to see new chars emerging along the river, particularly in Gangachara upazila, which threaten fish habitats and the livelihoods of fishermen. Residents and experts alike are calling for careful dredging that restores navigability and preserves the river’s original path.
