Bihar News : English village in Farqa panchayat under Sabour block is facing severe erosion along the Ganga. Fluctuations in the river’s water level and strong currents have already swallowed several concrete houses and fertile farmland, while dozens of other homes are now on the brink of the river.
The situation has created panic among affected families. A large number of residents have started moving to safer locations as the threat to the village continues to grow.
Residents Forced to Demolish Their Own Homes
Residents living in areas affected by erosion are being forced to dismantle their own concrete houses to prevent losing everything. Families are trying to salvage windows, doors, frames, bricks and other construction materials for possible use when they build homes elsewhere.
Many displaced families have taken shelter under tarpaulins on higher embankments, along roadsides and at other safer locations. According to local residents, a large-scale migration from the village has already begun.
Erosion Also Threatens Ghoshpur School
The situation is not limited to English village. The Ganga is also rapidly eroding land in neighbouring Ghoshpur.
A large portion of the playground of Ghoshpur Middle School has already collapsed into the river. This has raised concerns that the school building could also be affected if erosion continues.
Residents fear that without timely intervention, road connectivity to the village could be completely disrupted and many more families could become homeless.
Residents Demand Immediate Anti-Erosion Measures
Affected residents have alleged that the Water Resources Department and local administration failed to put adequate measures in place in time. They have demanded immediate construction of a permanent ring embankment and large-scale anti-erosion work to protect English village and nearby residential areas.
Residents said that simply placing geo-bags or sandbags has not been enough to withstand the strong river current. They have called for concrete and effective measures to control the erosion.
Demand for Relief and Rescue Arrangements
Given the seriousness of the situation, residents have urged the Disaster Management Department and flood control authorities to take immediate action.
They have also appealed to the District Magistrate to provide adequate polythene sheets, dry ration and clean drinking water to families who have been displaced. Residents have further demanded sufficient boats to evacuate people from areas facing an immediate threat.
