OUR CORRESPONDENT, Patuakhali

The six-vent sluice gate in Chakamaia union of Kalapara upazila, Patuakhali, has remained unusable for years, causing suffering to farmers.

Constructed in 1965 over the Kochopatra river, the sluice gate was meant to prevent saline water from entering agricultural lands in 50 villages in Patuakhali and Barguna.

However, decades of neglect and lack of maintenance have left the structure in a fragile state.

A recent visit revealed crumbling concrete pillars with exposed rusted rods, while the corroded gates remain permanently open, allowing continuous saline water intrusion. The guide wall has long eroded into the river, and illegal fishing nets were hanging over each gate.

As a result, around 30,000 farmers along the riverbanks face uncertainty over their cultivation.

“Since the sluice gate cannot be operated, saline water continuously inundates our croplands,” said Abdul Malek, a local farmer.

A road built over the sluice gate is also in a dilapidated state, disrupting communication.

“With the gates damaged and left open, water flow remains uninterrupted. As a result, around a 200-metre stretch of three sections of the embankment on the west side has been washed away, while the only road along the canal is also eroding,” said Motaleb Howlader, another farmer.

According to the Water Development Board, the sluice gate underwent only minor repairs since 1965. No substantial repair has ever been carried out to it.

Locals also alleged that certain groups with political backing earn Tk 5,000–20,000 daily by setting fishing nets in front of the sluice gate, often leading to conflicts.

Abdur Rahman Bhuiyan, sub-divisional engineer of WDB’s Kalapara Circle, said at least Tk 8 crore would be required to renovate the sluice gate. “A proposal requesting necessary funding has been submitted to higher authorities. Renovation will commence upon approval and allocation of funds.”