River erosion has taken a severe turn in various parts of Kurigram, leaving thousands of people in despair. The Brahmaputra, Dharla, and Teesta rivers have already devoured hundreds of homesteads, farmlands, and trees in Begumganj Union’s Mollarchar, Rasulpur, and Koddar Mor areas of Ulipur upazila. Several char areas in Raiganj Union of Nageshwari upazila—including Char Damal, Char Nuchni, and Fander Char—are also facing massive erosion.

At the same time, riverside villages in Kurigram Sadar, Chilmari, Rajarhat, Roumari, and Rajibpur upazilas remain under constant threat of being washed away.

During a recent visit, vast stretches of farmland and homesteads were found swallowed by the rivers within just a few days. Roads, schools, mosques, madrasas, community clinics, and numerous other establishments are now at risk. Locals fear the damage will intensify unless urgent protective measures are taken.

“River erosion has become the biggest curse of our lives. Every day we wake up to news of fresh losses. If the government ensures permanent protection, we could at least live in safety,” said Abul Mia, a resident of Raiganj Union.

Local farmer Ajibor Ali echoed the frustration: “I’ve lost my land and can no longer farm. Feeding my children has become the biggest challenge.” Jammez Uddin from Fander Char added, “One night of erosion can wipe out everything—land, trees, homes. Even the little place we have left to live in is at risk.”

Kurigram Water Development Board Executive Engineer Md Rakibul Hasan said: “Our budget is limited, but we are trying our best. Geo-bags are being dumped in several erosion-prone areas.”

Every year during the monsoon, hundreds of families in Kurigram lose their homes to erosion. Experts warn that without long-term planning and permanent embankments, there is no sustainable way out of this recurring disaster.