Heavy Rainfall in Noakhali: Widespread Waterlogging Causes Public Suffering

Local Correspondent

Continuous rainfall since last night in Noakhali has caused waterlogging in various parts of the city, including the district administration office, leading to public suffering.

The district meteorological office recorded 160 millimeters of rainfall in the 24-hour period from Wednesday morning to 9:00 am on Thursday, June 19.

Areas affected by waterlogging include the district judge court premises, judge court road, the road in front of the deputy commissioner’s office, district Jame Mosque road, Housing Estate, Balur Maath, Master Para, Khondkar Para, Madhusudanpur, Lakshminarayanpur, and other important offices, residential areas, and roads.

Local residents reported that due to the encroachment of canals flowing through Noakhali Municipality, even light rainfall causes severe waterlogging, creating extreme public suffering. Students, office-goers, patients, and pedestrians are facing significant difficulties.

Low-lying water reservoirs in the city have nearly disappeared. Unplanned settlements and commercial establishments have blocked rainwater drainage. Without immediate sustainable drainage solutions, the city may face permanent waterlogging in the future.

Acting Officer of the District Meteorological Office Rafiqul Islam said, “Noakhali recorded the country’s highest rainfall of 160 millimeters in the last 24 hours. Rainfall has continued for several days and may persist in the coming days.”

Deputy Commissioner Khondkar Istiaq Ahmed said, “We have held multiple meetings to address waterlogging. We are taking the matter seriously, but public cooperation is also needed.”