Impact of Riverbank Erosion: A case Study of Naria Upazila of Shariatpur District, Bangladesh

Abstract

Riverbank erosion is a common natural phenomenon in Bangladesh. In terms of afflicted individuals and property damage, the impact of river bank erosion is the most notable. The goal of the study is to determine the socio-economic impact and consequences of riverbank erosion on Naria upazila in Shariatpur District which is a vulnerable area in terms of erosion of Padma river. A field survey has been conducted including interviews and FGDs for the purpose of primary data collection while secondary data has been collected from census, reports from national and international organizations, books, journals and relevant articles. The study discovered that erosion has a long-term impact on livelihood and has changed the livelihood patterns of erosion-affected people in this area. People have lost their sources of income, homestead lands, agricultural lands, food production and other livelihood options. They are deprived of education, safe water, health care, sanitation and other basic human needs that triggers as the push factors of migration in this area. It is high time for the government and local organizations to take responsibility for reducing riverbank erosion's disastrous effects.