Staff Reporter: Md. Abul Kalam Azad (Sentu)
SHIBALAY, MANIKGANJ
Residents across a 6-kilometer stretch in Mandakhola, Baroria, Balla, and Maluchi areas of Arua Union in Shibalay Upazila are living in constant fear due to severe river erosion. With the onset of the monsoon season, the fierce erosion of the Padma and Jamuna rivers has already washed away the homes, arable lands, and homesteads of numerous families.
Today, Friday (May 8, 2026), S A Kabir Jinnah, the Honorable Member of Parliament for the Ghior-Daulatpur-Shibalay (Manikganj-1) constituency, visited the erosion-affected areas and inquired about the well-being of the impoverished and helpless victims. During the visit, he listened intently to the grievances of the riverside residents and assured them of his full support.
The Member of Parliament stated that the urgent placement of geo-bags and the implementation of permanent defense measures to prevent further erosion would be prioritized before the relevant government departments and the National Parliament. He added, “Every effort will be made to ensure necessary grants and assistance from the government as quickly as possible to protect the people living by the river.”
Shibalay Upazila leaders, local public representatives, and members of the general public were present during the visit. Local residents expressed hope that through the sincere initiative of the MP, effective measures will be taken swiftly, bringing much-needed relief to the victims of river erosion.