The ongoing fatalities of individuals, including children, who have fallen into open drains in Chattogram city are causing serious concerns. It has been reported that at least 14 people have lost their lives in the past six years due to such incidents, with many others sustaining injuries. The most recent victim was a three-year-old girl who tragically drowned in an open roadside drain in the Halishahar area on July 9 while playing near her home. Similarly, in April, a six-month-old baby lost its life when a rickshaw plunged into an open drain amidst strong water currents in the Kapasgola area, and the infant’s body was recovered from the Chaktai canal after 14 hours. These distressing events have unfortunately become all too common in Chattogram, particularly during the monsoon season, despite repeated protests against unsafe drains and the negligence of those responsible.
Despite numerous ambitious and costly initiatives by the authorities over the years to enhance Chattogram city’s drainage system and alleviate waterlogging issues, a fundamental task such as covering all drains remains unaccomplished. A report from 2023 revealed that almost 70 percent of the city’s water bodies have been filled in the last five decades, with several canals disappearing due to illegal encroachments. Originally comprising 72 canals, the city now only accounts for 56, as indicated in the drainage masterplan devised by Chattogram WASA, leading to severe waterlogging problems.
In the previous year, the Chattogram City Corporation (CCC), frequently criticized for its failure in preventing waterlogging, asserted that nearly 80 percent of hazardous locations near drains had been covered with slabs and approximately 70 percent of necessary retaining walls along vulnerable canals had been constructed to enhance safety. However, questions remain regarding the unresolved drains and canals, as well as the maintenance of those that have been “secured.” The recent deaths of two children underscore the continuous risks posed by both incomplete projects and inadequate supervision. The urgency to address these issues is paramount to prevent further tragedies.
It is imperative for city authorities to promptly implement measures to avert any more casualties resulting from open drains. Every exposed drain must be securely covered, and vulnerable canals must be safeguarded. A survey conducted in 2021 identified 5,527 hazardous spots associated with canals and drains, all of which require immediate attention for safety measures. Equally critical is addressing the persistent waterlogging issue in the city, which is directly linked to many tragic incidents. Furthermore, officials accountable for the city’s upkeep and advancement must be held responsible for their subpar performance and negligence.