Posted on April 23, 2026
The Monai River in Dakshin Banshikunda Union of Madhynagar Upazila of Sunamganj district has lost its navigability and turned into a char. About 16,000 people from 15 villages live on the banks of this fast-flowing river.
Due to the drying up of water during the dry season, the people of Banshikunda Union are facing various problems including water for irrigation of cropland and water used for daily household chores.
The source of the Manai River is the mountain slopes of Meghalaya, India, and rainwater flowing from the Khasia River in Banshikunda North Union, as well as other nearby rivers.
Currently, the natural environment and biodiversity of the river are facing threats due to the decrease in water flow in the Manai River. The people of about 15 villages on the banks of the river are currently facing various crises, including household chores, washing livestock, bathing, and using water for agricultural work.
During the current dry season, an area of about 20 kilometers from the source of the river in Meghalaya has dried up and turned into a dead canal. There is no water flow, no current.
One of the local residents said, “The Manai River was once closely linked to the daily lives of the people of this area. This river was the easiest way to navigate the waterways for agriculture, household work, fish sanctuary, and navigation. Due to lack of dredging, silt has accumulated on the riverbed and the river has turned into a char. We want the government to dredge the river. Keep the water flowing.”
Local media worker Sanwar Hossain said, “My house is on the bank of the river, that house is still there. Only the river has disappeared and moved away. It is now dying as it narrows. In this way, our relationship with the river is ending forever. Not having a relationship with the river means moving away from life. Life without the river is half our life. I appeal to the government to dredge the river and restore it to its former state, which will revitalize the life, nature and environment of this area.”
Noor Alam, Deputy Assistant Engineer of the Water Development Board, said, “The higher authorities have been informed about the excavation of the Monai River. We hope to be able to start the excavation work very soon.”
River researchers say that long-term scientific planning is needed not only to prevent mining but also to prevent irregularities and corruption.
Sunamganj Water Development Board Executive Engineer Mamun Hawlader said, “The integrated desilting project has been included in the Sunamganj Madhyanagar to restore the freshness of the Monai River. The project will be approved very soon and the dredging work of the river will begin.”
