Amtali Town Protection Embankment Remains Unrepaired Over 18 Years After Natural Disasters, Residents at Risk.

Amtali (Barguna) Correspondent. The Amtali municipal town protection embankment has become hazardous in various sections due to a prolonged lack of repair and maintenance. Even a slight rise in tidal water causes flooding in various parts of the municipal town, sparking anxiety and panic among residents living near the embankment. Locals allege that the damaged sections of the Amtali town protection embankment have not undergone necessary repairs since the devastating Cyclone Sidr struck on November 15, 2007. They claim that despite subsequent cyclones, storm surges, and natural disasters hitting the coastal region, no effective measures have been taken to ensure the embankment's permanent protection. The area adjacent to the embankment—stretching from the Amtali Ferry Ghat to the *Mahashmashan Ghat* (cremation ground) used by the Hindu community—is a vital part of the town. Every year, the embankment and its protective concrete blocks in this area sustain damage from tides and natural disasters. In some places, blocks have shifted from the embankment's slope, leading to erosion towards the river. Consequently, homes, businesses, and key infrastructure located near the embankment are at risk. Local residents report that since Cyclone Sidr, the coastal region has suffered extensive damage from a series of cyclones and natural disasters, including Rashmi, Aila, Mahasen, Komen, Roanu, Mora, Fani, Bulbul, Amphan, Yaas, Jawad, Sitrang, Mocha, Hamoon, and Remal. The Amtali town protection embankment also sustained damage during these events. However, due to the lack of necessary repairs over such a long period, the condition of various sections of the embankment is becoming increasingly precarious. Shyamal Chandra Dey, a resident living near the embankment in Ward No. 4 of Amtali Municipality, said, "I have been living here with my family for a long time. If the embankment's concrete blocks were repaired, we could live much more safely. Otherwise, even a minor tidal surge causes water to flood our courtyards." Amir Hossain Talukdar, a local sawmill owner, said, "I have been in this business for a long time, but my sawmill is currently at risk. Previously, there was a 10-to-15-foot stretch of land in front of the mill before the slope of the embankment blocks began; however, repeated damage to the blocks caused by floods and tidal waters has eroded that space entirely. I live in constant fear that my business establishment might be swallowed by the river at any moment." Locals are demanding the immediate identification of vulnerable sections of the Amtali town protection embankment, followed by urgent repairs and the implementation of sustainable protective measures. They have also called for long-term development and regular maintenance of the embankment, taking future natural disasters into account. Regarding this matter, Md. Abdul Hannan Pradhan, Executive Engineer (Civil) of the Barguna Water Development Board, said, "I have informed my subordinates about the issue. They will visit the site to inspect the situation. If the embankment is found to be at risk, appropriate measures will be taken." Locals are increasingly concerned about the current state of the Amtali town protection embankment due to prolonged neglect and successive natural disasters. They fear that without prompt and effective action, the municipality's residential areas and vital infrastructure could face severe risks during future tidal surges and cyclones.