FIELD STUDY ON

GEO-ENVIRONMENTAL & BIOLOGICAL COMPONENTS OF SATKHIRA REGION

FIELD STUDY ON GEO-ENVIRONMENTAL

& BIOLOGICAL COMPONENTS OF

SATKHIRA REGION

SUBMITTED TO

Dr. Syed Hafizur Rahman

Associate Professor

Dept. of Environmental Sciences

Jahangirnagar University

Mohammad Emadul Huda

Assistant Professor

Dept. of Environmental Sciences

Jahangirnagar University

Fahmida Parvin

Lecturer

Dept. of Environmental Sciences

Jahangirnagar University

Submission on: – 13th of February 2012

Md. Taufick Imam (574)

Md. Sohel Rana (573)

Md. Nor Ali (585)

K. M. Ferdous Mahmud (568)

Mohammad Rubaiat Islam (581)

SUBMITTED BY

Dept. Of Environmental Sciences

Jahangirnagar University

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

Department of Environmental Sciences of Jahangirnagar University arrange Field work

program each year that aims at the development of the problem solving capability of the

students. Like the other years, we, the third year students of session 2008-09 are going on a

field trip. Besides theoretical education, we are lucky to have such opportunity to

implement various environmental methods and techniques in to solve potential

environmental degradation as well as beneficial effects. This helps us a lot to watch the

nature more closely and deeply that increases our ability to solve various complex

environmental phenomena easily and effectively. This year, we are about to visit Satkhira

district and adjacent area that is famous for their characteristic Bengal Delta formation and

recent alluvial sedimentation pattern. Besides, the great tropical mangrove Sundarbans is

really close to the area. We are really excited and keen to unfold the mysteries of nature by

exploring ourselves. We would like to pay our profound gratitude to our honorable teacher

Dr. Shafi Mohammad Tareq for arranging such wonderful field work program.

The relentless hard work of our honorable teacher Dr. Syed Hafizur Rahman can never ever

be forgotten. Without his immense patience and excellent management skills, we are on

our way to another successful and effective field investigation.

We are extremely grateful to our honorable teacher Mohammad Emadul Huda. Without his

parent-like care and all time supervision, it would have never been possible to arrange such

giant activity. We would like to get as care we always get from Huda sir in the upcoming

field investigation and in-field analysis.

In the last, but of course not the least, we would like to pay our gratitude to our recently

joined lecturer Fahmida Parvin for making some time for us. Despite her extremely busy

schedule, she managed her time for us which are a great honor for us. We will always

expect her cheerful and friendly participation, sister-like guidance and overall proper care

intra-tour and the days to come.

We have no words known to say thanks to our lovely friends. We just want to say that,

thanks to God for making such lovely friends for us. Hope we are going to have some great

fun besides our field objectives. We specially thank to the members of management

committee, transportation committee and food committee for their hard work to make the

field program successful.

Contents

CHAPTER TOPIC PAGE

ABSTRACT 01

BACKGROUND OF STUDY 02

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES 03

METHODOLOGY AND DATA SOURCES

04

REVIEW ON SATKHIRA DISTRICT

SATKHIRA DISTRICT - AT A GLANCE 05

LOCATION 06

SHORT HISTORY 06

GEOLOGY AND GEOMORPHOLOGY 06

ECONOMY 06

CLIMATIC CONDITIONS 07

NATURAL RESOURCES 08

COMMUNICATION FACILITIES 09

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE & HERITAGE 09

HAZARDS 09

DETAILED STUDY AREA 11

SHYAMNAGAR UPAZILA AREA

SHYAMNAGAR UPAZILA - AT A GLANCE 12

LOCATION 13

SHORT HISTORY 13

GEOLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY 13

WEATHER AND CLIMATE 15

RESOURCES 16

ECOSYSTEMS 17

MAJOR TYPES OF ECOSYSTEMS 18

BIODIVERSITY 19

ENVIRONMENTAL OBSERVATIONS 20

POLLUTION 20

HAZARD 21

TROPICAL CYCLONE 21

STORM SURGE 21

MARINE EROSION 22

ARSENIC CONTAMINATION 22

KALIGANJ UPAZILA

KALIGANJ UPAZILA - AT A GLANCE 25

LOCATION 26

SHORT HISTORY 26

GEOLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY 26

WEATHER AND CLIMATE 27

RESOURCES 27

ECOSYSTEMS 29

MAJOR TYPES OF ECOSYSTEMS 30

BIODIVERSITY 30

ENVIRONMENTAL OBSERVATIONS 31

POLLUTIONS 31

HAZARDS 32

AILA – THE NIGHTMARE 33

THE SUNDARBANS

LOCATION 39

GEOGRAPHY 39

GEOLOGY 40

PHYSIOGRAPHY 40

SOIL 40

CLIMATE 41

MAJOR RIVER SYSTEM 41

BIODIVERSITY 41

FLORAL COMPOSITION 41

FRESHWATER HERITIERA FORESTS 42

FAUNAL COMPOSITION 43

RESOURCES 44

PROBLEMS AND HAZARDS 45

MANAGEMENT ISSUES 46

CONCLUSION 47

REFERENCE

APPENDIX

1

ABSTRACT

Satkhira is a district in South-western Bangladesh which is a part of the Khulna Division.

Geologically this area is part of the overall Quaternary geology of the Bengal Basin.

Sediments from early Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna river systems were deposited over the

northern and eastern parts of the basin during Pleistocene period. Tectonic movements and

sea level changes between Pleistocene and recent periods have allowed deep erosion and

deposition on the Pleistocene surface. Fluviatile environment of sedimentation in the

southern downward area of Bengal Basin formed overlapping deltaic arcs of Ganges-

Brahmaputra-Meghna river systems in recent time. This area is also known for their high

amount of arsenic concentration in the subsurface groundwater. A huge number of people

are affected by arsenicosis that results from the use of arsenic contaminated water.

This area is saturated with many resources including land, water, forest etc. We use these

resources in various ways to make our life easy and more comfortable. Problems associated

with the consumption pattern and consumption trend is getting higher and higher day by

day. In this study, we had a tribute to study such phenomenon by ourselves so that we can

solve them in an efficient way.

This area is characterized by the high percentage of agricultural activity as agriculture is the

major profession of the local people. Highly fertile land of this area is highly suitable for

agricultural activity. But recently, local people are getting involved more and more in coastal

aqua culture and shrimp culture as it is economically profitable for the farmer. But slowly

this practice is producing some harmful impact in the local ecosystem and the environment

as a whole. Salinity intrusion is getting the concern of experts more and more as they have

some detrimental and hazardous effects. Our field investigation also aims at the study of

such phenomenon to avoid such undesirable events.

2

BACKGROUND OF STUDY

Practical implementation of analyzed knowledge is very important for developing the problem

solving ability of a student. Environmental Sciences, like all other branches of science, requires a

proper practical knowledge and ability to implement analyzed knowledge environment to minimize

possible adverse environmental degradation and maximizing potential benefits. If an environmental

Scientist fails to have a good knowledge about problems and possibilities in implementing

environmental knowledge in the natural environment, he/she will have to suffer a lot.

By realizing this fact, the Department of Environmental Sciences of Jahangirnagar University runs a

course on field work as an academic study course each year. As a student of B.Sc. third year, we the

students of the session 2008-09, are about to pay a visit the southern part of Bangladesh as a part of

our field work very soon. In this trip, we will visit Shyamnagar Upazila and Kaliganj Upazila of

Satkhira district. We will study about the coastal environment, their possibilities and problems. We

will also try to investigate the major resources and hazards of the area.

Bangladesh is a small, densely populated country with a long coastal line of about 700km. These area

is the habitat of a large number of population that are exposed to many natural as well as

anthropogenic hazards that results in a serious damage of both life and property. We had

experienced SIDR, AILA and many more potentially hazardous calamities in the area. Some quick and

sensible decision regarding these disasters helped us to avoid a huge amount of potential loss. But

we strongly believe that, a proper investigation of the natural processes and their relationship with

these hazards will help greatly to minimize the possible loss.

Besides, there are many social problems in the area which causes the fall in the standard of living.

The number of people that use sanitary latrine is very rare in the area while the rate of literacy is

extremely low. We will also try to investigate the social problems like these and find out the possible

remedial measures for these problems.

So, we can say that, this field trip lies on a strong ground of socio-economic and scientific basis

where the availability of information is very limited and the numbers of studies are extremely few.

So, we are hopeful that this field investigation will provide us with important data and information

that will help us in taking decision on the proper management in the future time including the period

of disaster.

3

AIMS AND OBJECTIVES

Behind any work, there must be some aim and objective. With the great deal of importance the

main concern of this field investigation is to observe the environmental condition, natural process,

resource and anthropogenic influence of Satkhira district and adjacent areas and their impact on the

surrounding ecosystem and environment as a whole. A very important objective of this trip is to

identify the problems of the area and their possible mitigation process.

OBJECTIVES: -

Major objectives of our field investigation are-

To observe the environmental change in ecosystem.

To observe the impact of bund on bank erosion.

To observe the discharge rate of the river in up & down stream.

To acquire knowledge about the potentiality of tourism

To acquire knowledge about the seasonal deposition.

To acquire knowledge about the socio-economic condition of Satkhira District.

To identify change in biodiversity due to human activity.

To identify potential hazard and disaster in the study area.

To find out environmental problem and their mitigation.

To know how to collect the data from field observation.

How to processes, analysis and represent the collecting data.

To know how to make a tour report

To know how to take sample and preserve the sample.

LIMITATIONS: -

Like all other activity, this study also exhibits some limitations in our investigation as well as decision making.

Among them, these followings are significant-

The data sources of the study tour were basically based on secondary data sources.

Within such short time, it was difficult to collect all the necessary information we need

Our budget is limited. So we had to make some choices about an appropriate data collection method

and use of instruments

Confusion was a major limitation during questionnaire survey that made us suffer a lot

4

METHODOLOGY AND DATA SOURCES

Methodology is one of the most important parts of any investigation. It means the way or manner by

which the study is accomplished, which refers to the full outcome of the process at a glance. It

includes some chronological steps that are necessary to complete the study successfully. Mode of

operation differs with the nature of the study. Methodology is always a compromise between

options and choices and is frequently determined by the availability of relevant resource and time. It

is very important in the sense that it gives one an idea about how the study has been conducted. A

proper methodology is always necessary for any report, which helps to organize experiences,

observations, examinations, analysis of data and information and their logical expression in a

systematic process to achieve the ultimate goals and objectives of the report. These are the major

methods by which the investigation will be completed-

Questioner survey

Visual observation

Mapping

Focus Group Discussion (FGD)

Key information collection from major authority

Transect methods

Photography

SUPPORTING INSTRUMENTS: -

There are various instruments that will be used in our study tour. Some of them are -

GPS-Explorist 200

Digital camera.

Location map.

Sample bags.

Sample bottle

Clip board.

Cutter.

Marker pen.

Pen and pencil

Erasers and others

Newspaper for Herbarium

Biological instrument box

5

REVIEW ON SATKHIRA DISTRICT

SATKHIRA DISTRICT - AT A GLANCE

COORDINATES: - 22.35°N & 89.08°E

DIVISION: - Khulna

BOUNDARY: - Jessore District in the

north, Bay of Bengal to the south,

Khulna District in the east, and to the

west by Pargana District of West

Bengal.

AREA: - 3858.33 km²

POPULATION: 1,843,194.

50.54% male and 49.46% female

LITERACY RATE: For males 39.7%, and

for females 21%.

MAIN OCCUPATIONS: Agriculture

36.9%, agricultural labourer 26.74%,

Religion: 78.08% Muslim, 21.45%

Hindu, 0.28% Christian, 0.01% are

Buddhist and 0.18% others.

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS: -

Primary Education Institute (1),

Colleges (39), High Schools (221), Junior

High Schools (4), Madrasas (259) and

Government Primary Schools (622)

MILLS AND FACTORIES: Textile mills,

rice mill, ice factory, flour mill, oil mill,

biscuit factory, fish processing factory,

cold storage, saw mill, lathe machine,

printing press and welding.

MAIN RIVERS: - Morichapr, Kholpotuar,

Betna, Raimangal, Hariabhanga,

Ichamati, Betrabati and Kalindi,

Jamuna.

6

LOCATION: -

Satkhira is a district in South-western Bangladesh which is a part of the Khulna Division. Satkhira

subdivision was established in 1861 under Jessore district and was included into Khulna district in

1882. In 1984 it became a district. The district consists of two municipalities, seven upazilas, 79

union parishads, eight thana and 1436 villages. The upazilas are: Satkhira Sadar, Assasuni, Debhata,

Kalaroa, Kaliganj, Shyamnagar and Tala. The two municipalities are Satkhira Sadar and Kalaroa. It has

an area covering 3858.33 km². It is bordered to the north by Jessore District, on the south by the Bay

of Bengal, to the east by Khulna District, and to the west by Pargana District of West Bengal.

There are many small and large rivers in the surrounding area. Among them Morichap River,

Kholpotua River, Betna River, Raimangal River, Hariabhanga River, Ichamati River, Betrabati River

and Kalindi-Jamuna River are significant.

SHORT HISTORY: -

The ancient name of Satkhira was Satgharia (noted zamindar Prannath Roy Chowdhury established

Satgharia). During the permanent settlement Bishnuram Chakravorti, an official of Raja

Krishnachandra of Nadia, purchased Buran Pargana by auction in 1772 and settled at Satgharia

village. Prananath Roy Chowdhury, son of Bishnuran Chakravorti, made considerable development in

the area. In 1781, most of the areas of Jessore, Faridpur and Khulna were brought under a single

administration. But later on while peasant movement spread over the region against the

oppressions of indigo planters and the local zamindars, the British established a subdivision at

Satgharia under Jessore district to control indigo revolt and to strengthen local administration. By

this time 'Satgharia'turned into 'Satkhira' in the records of the British. Satkhira region was a part of

the ancient Vanga janapada. Once it was the capital of the state of bara-bhuiyan of Bengal. Peasant

movement, against the east india company and oppressions of the local zamindars, spread over the

district in 1801 under the leadership of Titumir. Besides, indigo resistance movement and wahabi

movement spread over the district during 1854 to 1860. It became a district headquarter in 1984.

GEOLOGY AND GEOMORPHOLOGY: -

The geology of the coastal area is part of the overall Quaternary geology of the Bengal Basin (BAKR,

1976; MORGAN & MCINTIRE, 1959). Sediments from early Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna river

systems were deposited over the northern and eastern parts of the basin during Pleistocene period.

Tectonic movements and sea level changes between Pleistocene and recent periods have allowed

deep erosion and deposition on the Pleistocene surface. Fluviatile environment of sedimentation in

the southern downward area of Bengal Basin formed overlapping deltaic arcs of Ganges-

Brahmaputra-Meghna river systems in recent time. The coastal belt of Khulna-Satkhira is within

Ganges delta. Floodplain sediments in Satkhira coastal belt, according to borehole information

drilled in the area up to a depth of 300 m are mainly composed of medium and fine sands, clay, silty

clay and sandy clay unit. A continuos clay-silty clay layer of varying thickness from few centimeters

to 50 m occurs at the top.

ECONOMY: -

Main occupations: Agriculture 36.9%, agricultural laborers 26.74%, commerce 13.32%, service

4.37%, wage laborers 3.72%, transport 2.46% , fishing 1.86%, pisciculture 1.01%, industry 1.49%, and

others 8.13% etc.

Main crops: Paddy, jute, sugarcane, mustard seed, potato, onion and betel leaf.

Main fruits: Mango, black berry, jackfruit, banana, papaya, litchi, coconut and guava.

7

Main exports: Shrimp, paddy, jute, wheat, betel leaf, leather and jute goods.

Mills and factories: Textile mills, rice mill, ice factory, flour mill, oil mill, biscuit factory, fish

processing factory, cold storage, saw mill, lathe machine, printing press and welding.

Tourism: - Sundarbans is the largest single block of tidal halophytic mangrove forest in the world and

is a World Heritage Site, and covers an area of 5747 km. Besides, there are many historical and

significant heritage sites in the area that plays important role in the development of tourism in the

district. Among them Tetulia Jami Mosque, Sultanpur Shahi Mosque, Jahajghata Naval Fort,

Joseshwari Mandir etc. are important.

Fisheries and farms: - Dairies 86, Poultries 322, Fisheries 3046, Shrimp farms 3650, Hatcheries 66

and 1 artificial breeding center.

Cottage industries: - Satkhira is famous for weaving, bamboo and cane work and potteries; other

cottage industries include goldsmith, blacksmith, potteries, wood work, mat work, tailoring, date

molasses and jute and cotton work.

CLIMATIC CONDITIONS: -

Geographically Satkhira district lies in the south of the tropic of cancer. The climate of this district is

divided into four types and these are:

a. Pre-monsoon period (March-May)

b. Monsoon period (June-September)

c. Post monsoon period (October-November)

d. Winter (December-February)

1% 2% 2% 2% 4%

4%

8%

13%

27%

37%

Major Occupations (%)

pisiculture

Industry

Fishing

Transport

Wage laborers

Service

Others

Business

Agricultural labour

8

Rainfall: -There is a considerable variation in the rainfall in different parts of the districts. The rainfall

in the cold season is exceptionally light. The amount of rainfall reaches the lowest stage in

December. Maximum rainfall is occurred in June to September.

Humidity: - The humidity of the atmosphere is generally high throughout the year. The highest

percentage of humidity is observed in July and August. The decrease in humidity is rapid till the

lowest percentage recorded in March.

Temperature: - Satkhira District exhibits a hot humid tropical climate. It has a tropical wet & dry

climate. The district has a distinct monsoonal season, with an annual average temperature of 25.5°C.

The temperature can be as low as 12.5°C in January while the highest temperature can be observed

in August. Highest temperature of Satkhira can be as high as 35.5°C.

NATURAL RESOURCES

Minerals and petroleum products have not been discovered in the area because geologically

it is still an active floodplain. While some other important resources are widely extracted, used and

0

10

20

30

40

50

60

70

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

Average Temperature of Satkhira (°C)

Lowest Temp Highest Temp

0

50

100

150

200

250

300

350

400

Jan Feb Mar Apr May June July Aug Sep Oct Nov Dec

13.7 40.1 37.6

86.5

152.4

296.6

375.4

297.3 280.1

120.6

31.2 11.4

Average Rainfall of Satkhira (mm)

9

developed. Among these resources, forest resource, land resource, water resource, salt and shrimp

etc. are very significant in Satkhira district.

Land use Total cultivable land 140953.93 hectares, fallow land 41220.31 hectares; single crop

46.91%, double crop 42.19% and treble crop land 10.90%; cultivable land under irrigation 34.03%.

Land control Among the peasants, 18.40% are landless, 33.62% small, 24.55% intermediate and

23.43% rich; cultivable land per head 0.09 hectare.

Value of land the market value of the land of the first grade is approximately Tk 7000 per 0.01

hectare.

COMMUNICATION FACILITIES

Communication facilities Roads: pucca 335 km, semi pucca 276 km and mud road 3580 km;

waterways 164 nautical mile.

Traditional transport Palanquin (extinct), bullock cart and horse carriage (nearly extinct), and boat.

ARCHAEOLOGICAL SITE & HERITAGE

Dargah of Mai Champa (Labasa, 1417), Jahajghata Naval Fort (Mautala, 1567), Dighi (pond) and clay

walled Moneyghar of Tittar Raja (Nawapara, 1582), Nabaratna Mandir (Demrail, 1580), Baro Duary

(Ishwaripur, 1582), Tenga Mosque (Banshipur,1599), Sonabaria Nabaratna Mandir (Kalaroa, 1767),

Joseshwari Mandir (Ishwaripur, 1899), Triangular Mandir of Chanda Bhairabi (Ishwaripur), Nagar Fort

of Raja Pratapaditya (Kaliganj), Parabajpur Mosque (Mukundapur), Hamman Khana (Ishwaripur),

Gopalpur Mandir (terocota decorated), Moutala Mosque, Annapunna Nabaratna Mandir (Satkhira),

Sultanpur Mosque, Nagarghata Mosque, Katunia Mandir.

HAZARDS: -

Except for the two land-locked countries of Nepal and Bhutan all the other five SAARC nations are

afflicted by cyclones, tidal waves and their compounding effects. Because of their extensive

coastlines, India, Bangladesh, Pakistan, Sri Lanka and Maldives have suffered from sea based storms

in varying degrees. The devastating 1991 cyclone in Bangladesh and the periodic storm surges over

the eastern coast of India show the propensity and destructive violence of cyclones emanating from

the Bay of Bengal.

Like other coastal regions of Bangladesh, Satkhira is highly vulnerable for the risk of many coastal

hazards. Among these hazards tidal waves, cyclones, salinity intrusion, storm surges, coastal erosion

and submersion of coastal areas are significant. Due to human activities some hazardous change

could occur. For example coastal aquaculture including shrimp culture, crab culture etc. They has

both positive and negative effect on envirionment.

POSITIVE IMPACTS OF SHRIMP FARMING: -

Shrimp farming and related activities helped the concerned people directly or indirectly

to increase their household income which led them to more savings and investment

resulting in better livelihood and socioeconomic condition. In the study areas, 50-73%

shrimp-crop farmers reported this opinion.

Coastal aquaculture has helped some households to become rich and majority of aqua-

households improved their economic condition.

Average income of shrimp farmers is several times higher compared to those involved in

rice farming. As a result of shrimp farming, socioeconomic infrastructures have been

developed. Overall 70% farmers reported this view.

10

Shrimp farming in coastal areas has contributed to poverty alleviation through creating

employment opportunity. Seventy three percent farmers reported that employment

opportunity has been increased due to shrimp farming.

Involvement in shrimp farming and shrimp farm activities, 38% sample farmers reported

that their investment capacity to other business has increased and 59% farmers viewed

that the educational facility for their children has increased due to extra income from

shrimp farms.

Social consequences are related to marketing facility and extension of electricity. Fifty to

sixty five percent farmers reported that it has been developed due to shrimp farming.

Benefits gained from coastal aquaculture operation are higher than any other

agricultural activities compared to land productivity. Thus, there is a growing interest of

local people towards coastal aquaculture.

NEGATIVE IMPACTS: -

Shrimp farming has made a sign Bangladesh. This change has created a setback for the significant

change in the production system from small-scale rice production and open water fishing to large-

scale pond/gher based aquaculture in the coastal regions of Bangladesh. This change has created a

setback for the small/marginal farmers and the fisherman who use engaged in open water fishing.

Thus farmers and traders are alleged to have been achieved at the expense of the small/marginal

farmers and the fisherman community.

Actually, it is true that shrimp makes substantial contribution to the national economy by generating

income, employment and by earning foreign exchange. Despite, positive gains there are some

adverse effects of shrimp farming on the environment and society at large.

Increase salinity of soils within polders leading to serious loss of soil fertility.

Damage of traditional economic activities such as crop and animal husbandry.

Decline of livestock population has resulted in manifold problems for agricultural

production.

Damage of household vegetation and social forestry.

Loss of common property rights.

Adverse effects on income distribution.

Damage to the mangrove forest and loss of biodiversity.

Raising river beds in shrimp growing areas.

Increasing social tension resulting from absentee entrepreneurship, having no commitment

to conservation of coastal resources and sustainable shrimp culture.

Insufficient supply of vegetables and small fishes, local people have been suffering from

imbalance diet.

Administrative corruption has increased in shrimp farming areas. Socioeconomic and

environmental consequences of shrimp farming as reported by shrimp farmers and others

stakeholders.

Detrimental effects on aquaculture (Shrimp culture):

1. Destroyed spawning and nursery grounds.

2. A reduction in fisheries habitats.

3. An end to natural fish recruitment.

4. Reduced natural fish food organisms like aquatic insects, mollusks and invertebrates.

11

DETAILED STUDY AREA

Satkhira district is a large district covering an area of about 3858.33 km².The district consists of two

municipalities, seven upazilas, 79 union parishads, eight thana and 1436 villages. The upazilas are

Satkhira Sadar, Assasuni, Debhata, Kalaroa, Kaliganj, Shyamnagar and Tala while Satkhira Sadar and

Kalaroa are two municipalities. So it is really hard to study all the area within such short time. We

have a plan to visit two upazilas of this district namely Khyamnagar and Kaliganj.

The famous tropical rainforest namely Sundarbans is not so much far away of the area. So we also

have a plan to visit the Sundarbans in order to understand the ecosystem, biodiversity and ecological

setup of this forest. For the better description of the study area, we can divide the description of the

report into 3 parts. Observations in Kaliganj Upazila Area

1. Shyamnagar Upazila Area

2. Kaliganj Area

3. The Sundarbans

12

SHYAMNAGAR UPAZILA AREA

SHYAMNAGAR UPAZILA - AT A GLANCE

COORDINATES: - 22.3306°N 89.1028°E

DISTRICT: - Satkhira

BOUNDARY: - Kaliganj and Assasuni

upazilas on the north, Sundarbans and

Bay of Bengal on the south, Koyra and

Assasuni upazilas on the east, West

Bengal of India on the west.

AREA: - 1968.24 km².

POPULATION: 2,65,004

50.46% male and 49.54% female

LITERACY RATE: For males 38%, and for

females 17.4%. Average 28.1%

MAIN OCCUPATIONS: Agriculture

32.93%, agricultural labor 25.81%,

wage laborer 6.21%, forestry 2.34%,

fishing 5.5%, transport 1.61%,

commerce 10.11%, service 3.38% and

transport 12.11%.

RELIGION: 74.14% Muslim, 25.40%

Hindu, 0.06% Christian, 0.01% are

Buddhist and 0.39% others.

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS: -

Colleges (5), High Schools (28), Junior

High Schools (4), Madrasas (98) and

Government Primary Schools (96)

MAIN CROPS: - Paddy, jute, potato,

linseed, sesame, pumpkin, mustard

seed, kanchu and vegetables.

MAIN RIVERS: - Jamuna, Hariabhanga,

Raymangal, Malancha, Arpangachia,

Bhet Khal

13

LOCATION: -

Shyamnagar Upazila is bounded by Kaliganj (Satkhira) and Assasuni upazilas on the north,

Sundarbans and Bay of Bengal on the south, Koyra and Assasuni upazilas on the east, West Bengal of

India on the west. The main rivers here are: Raymangal, Kalindi, Kobadak, Madar, Kholpetua,

Arpangachia, Malancha, Hariabhanga and Chuna. South Talpatti Island at the estuary of the

Hariabhanga is notable places.

Shyamnagar town consists of 5 mouzas and 13 villages. The area of the town is 10.76 km². The town

has a population of 11021; male 52.36% and female 47.64%. The density of population is 1024 per

km². Literacy rate among the town people is 37.3%. The town has three dakbungalows and a BDR

Head Quarter.

Shyamnagar thana was turned into an upazila in 1982. It consists of 13 union parishads, 127 mouzas

and 216 villages. Average literacy in whole upazila is 28.1% (male 38% and female 17.4%). There are

5 colleges, 28 high schools, 98 madrasas, and 96 government primary schools. Main occupations of

people are agriculture. About 32.93% people are engaged with this work. Main exports Paddy, jute

and shrimp.

SHORT HISTORY: -

Once the capital of Raja Bikramaditya and Maharaja Pratapaditya was at Dhumghat of Satkhira. Later

it was transferred to Ishwaripur (Originated from the name Jeshoreshwaripur). Maharaja

Pratapaditya declared independence of South Bengal (Jessore, Khulna in north, Sundarbans, Bay of

Bengal in South, and Barisal in east and River Ganges in west) against the Mughal Empire of India.

Pratapaditya was the king of Jessore and one of the bara-bhuiyans of Bengal. Pratapaditya fought

against the Mughal imperial army during its inroad into Bengal in the early 17th century. His

territories covered the greater part of what is now included in the greater Jessore, Khulna and

Barisal districts. He established his capital at Dhumghat, a strategic position at the confluence of the

Jamuna and Ichhamati.

A battle between the Pak army and the freedom fighters was held at Gopalpur on 20 August 1971 in

which freedom fighters Subedar Ilias Khan, Abul Kalam Azad, Abdul Kader and Abdul Jabbar were

killed. On 12 September 1971 the Pak army conducted genocide at Harinagar in which 39 persons

were killed and 2 wounded. Mass killing sites are Harinagar and Katkhali. Memorial monuments are

found at Gopalpur and Harinagar.

GEOLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY: -

The geology of the coastal area is part of the overall Quaternary geology of the Bengal Basin (BAKR,

1976; MORGAN & MCINTIRE, 1959). Sediments from early Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna river

systems were deposited over the northern and eastern parts of the basin during Pleistocene period.

Tectonic movements and sea level changes between Pleistocene and recent periods have allowed

deep erosion and deposition on the Pleistocene surface. Fluviatile environment of sedimentation in

the southern downward area of Bengal Basin formed overlapping deltaic arcs of Ganges-

Brahmaputra-Meghna river systems in recent time. The coastal belt of Khulna-Satkhira is within

Ganges delta. Floodplain sediments in Satkhira coastal belt, according to borehole information

drilled in the area up to a depth of 300 m are mainly composed of medium and fine sands, clay, silty

clay and sandy clay unit. A continuos clay-silty clay layer of varying thickness from few centimeters

to 50 m occurs at the top. This top clay layer is underlain by medium to fine sand, silty sand and

sandy clay alternations and is followed by a clay, silty-sandy clay layer occurring at different depths

14

ranging from 75 to 270 m. The lower boundary of this regionally extending clay layer has not been

penetrated by boreholes.

.

Figure: - Geological profiles in Shyamnagar

Three aquifers (First, Second and Third) are confirmed to continuously distributed in Satkhira area as

shown in Figure. Clayey layer generally becomes thicker in Satkhira area and boundary of aquifer

becomes deeper into southern part. In case of first aquifer, while sandy layer is mainly distributed in

Jessore area, clayey layer is distinguished in southern part of Satkhira area. In the case of the second

aquifer, while clayey layer is distributed in only southern part of Jessore area, two clayey layers are

distributed in almost all Satkhira area. Second aquifer is divided into upper part and lower part.

Figure: Standard model of aquifer unit in Jessore and Satkhira area (Yellow color: sandy layer, Green

color: clayey layer, Blue arrowed area: deep aquifer

The layer which is distinguished clay and silt is presumed to be delta front deposit in both First and

Second aquifer. Third aquifer is rarely confirmed on geological log due to become deeper in Satkhira

area.

First aquifer is the target layer of shallow tube well and high contaminated zone of arsenic. Second

aquifer has different geological situation from place to place and characteristics of both shallow

aquifer and deep aquifer. A risk of arsenic contamination in Second aquifer is assumed to be high

toward north from Jessore area, because there is no inter-bedded clayey layer between First and

Second aquifer in Jessore area. Meanwhile development of Second aquifer is assumed to be possible

from southern part of Jessore to Satkhira, because the inter-bedded clayey layer between First and

15

Second aquifer exists in this area. While the inter-bedded clayey layer between Second and Third

aquifer exists in all area, development of Third aquifer is difficult in some area because of depth of

aquifer.

WEATHER AND CLIMATE: -

Weather and climate of the area is similar to the other coastal districts and regions. Temperature of

this area shows high variation in months of the year. The temperature remains high during April to

September of the year while gradual reduction in temperature is observed from end of September.

Temperature falls down to the lowest stage at the end of December to Mid-January when we

experience huge cold weather

Fig: - Climatic conditions of Shyamnagar Upazila

A few cold waves can also be experienced during these periods. The temperature again increases

from the mid-February. The average mean temperature of this area is almost 24.5°C. But the

extreme cold temperature can be as low as 8°C. The highest temperature of the year can be as high

as 35.5°C.

Humidity of this area is moderately high compared to the nearby districts and shows a high variation

in months. Humidity of the area reaches the lowest level during the month March when rainfall is

very low. With the increasing rainfall, humidity increases gradually. As a result, we can see a rapid

increase in humidity during May to August. At the end of August, humidity again decreases.

Rainfall of Shyamnagar Upazila shows a unique pattern of change. The amount of rainfall is very low

during November to February of the year. At the end of March, the amount of rainfall increases with

time. The amount of rainfall reaches to the highest level during July while the least amount of

rainfall is experienced during the end of December to mid-January.

Evaporation of the area shows the increase during January to May. At the end of May, the amount of

evaporation decreases gradually up to the end of December. The least amount of evaporation is

experienced during the early January.

16

RESOURCES: -

Shyamnagar Upazila is full of many significant amounts of resources. We use these resources in

various ways for the growth and development of our society in various ways. Among these

resources, these followings are some important types of resources-

1. Forest Resource

2. Water Resource

3. Land Resource

4. Food Resource

5. Energy Resource

6. Mineral Resource

FOREST RESOURCE: -

The Sundarbans is the largest single block of tidal halophytic mangrove forest in the world that is

situated very close to the area. This is a large forest of many natural and endangered plant species.

These plants are used in different ways to make our life easy and more comfortable. There are two

types of use for the forest resources. They are-

1. Direct Use

2. Indirect Use

Direct use of forest products are as follows-

Fruits: - Mango, Hackfruit, Berry, Lichi, Guava etc.

Roots: - Discoria

Medicine: - Basak (Adhatoda Vasica), Kalomegh (Andrographis aniculata ), Shatomuli

(Asparagus racemosus), Brahmi (Bacopa Moniera), Dhutura (Datura metel) etc.

Fuelwood: - Many species of trees and shrubs

Small timber for building huts and houses

Wood for farm implements

Bamboo and cane for breakfasts

Grass for grazing and small feeding livestock

Indirect Uses of the forest includes-

Building material for construction and furniture for urban sector

Medicinal products collected and processed into drugs

Gums and resins processed into a variety of products

Raw material for industrial products and chemicals

Paper from bamboo and softwood

WATER RESOURCE: -

Water resource is an important resource of the area. Water of this area is used in different ways for

making our life easy and more comfortable. The local people use a huge volume of water in different

ways. Cultivation of fish is the historical form of the use of water resource in the area. But recently

the water use pattern has been changed a lot. Local people are feeling more and more interest in

coastal aqua culture and salt cultivation. These two activities are playing significant role in the

development of the financial and socioeconomic conditions of the surrounding area. The local

infrastructures and other facilities are getting dramatically improved. As a result, rapid improvement

in the standard of living is observed. Besides their positive economic outcomes, many harmful

17

effects and consequences are also experienced in the area. Sea water intrusion and the increased

level of salinity is the very common problem that we face recently.

LAND RESOURCE: -

Landforms formed from the huge amount of alluvial sediments play important role in the

development of the local social and economic conditions. This area is basically an agricultural land.

Highly fertile land of the area like these is highly potential for the cultivation of paddy, jute,

sugarcane etc. But with the increased use of salt culture and shrimp culture, the level of salt is

increasing day by day. As a result, these highly potential and cultivable lands are losing their fertility.

A quick response against the potential harmful change in the state of the land resource should be

taken. Otherwise we will have to suffer a lot in the near future.

FOOD RESOURCE: -

This area provides us with valuable food resources from various sources. Among these sources,

forest, agriculture, animal husbandry ad fishery are important. Once our lands were fertile and we

were able to produce high amount of crops without the help of any fertilizers. But with the

increasing use of chemical fertilizers and insecticides and pesticides, the fertility of the land is

decreasing. Besides the over exploitation and over extraction of forest resources are playing harmful

impact on the overall food resources. To maintain continuous food supply, we need to be careful

when we use chemical fertilizers, pesticides as well as the pattern and rate of forest resource

extraction.

ENERGY RESOURCE: -

The area is highly potential in terms of energy resource. The collection and utilization of forest

products are the main source of energy resources in the area. A large number of people are directly

and indirectly dependent of the collection of fuel wood and their business. By this way, they earn a

significant amount of money that plays significant role in local, regional and national scale. Local

people use wood as the major type of energy source to cook food and serve many other purposes.

By this way, energy plays significant role in the development of the area and increases the standard

of living of the local people.

MINERAL RESOURCE: -

The presence and extraction of mineral resource is very limited in the Shyamnagar area. There is

hardly any mineral resource to be found in the area. The presences of petroleum ad crude

hydrocarbons are yet not discovered. This is mainly because of the nature of the sedimentation and

stratigraphic succession pattern. This area is an example of recent alluvial sedimentation and its

sedimentation stage is not matured yet. That is why the presence of any hydrocarbon or petroleum

resource is not discovered so far.

ECOSYSTEMS: -

Organisms and environment are two non-separable factors. Organisms interact with each other and

also with the physical conditions that are present in their habitats. "The organisms and the physical

features of the habitat form an ecological complex or more briefly an ecosystem." There are many

major ecosystem found in the study area. The structure of these ecosystems is common. From the

structure point of view, all ecosystems consist of the following basic components

1. Abiotic components

2. Biotic components

18

Abiotic Components: This includes basic inorganic elements and compounds, such as soil, water,

oxygen, calcium carbonates, phosphates and a variety of organic compounds (by-products of organic

activities or death). It also includes such physical factors and ingredients as moisture, wind currents

and solar radiation. Radiant energy of sun is the only significant energy source for any ecosystem.

Different non-living components, such as carbon, phosphorus, nitrogen, etc have great importance.

Biotic Components: The biotic components include all living organisms present in the environmental

system. From nutrition point of view, the biotic component can be grouped into two basic

components:

1. Autotrophic components, and

2. Heterotrophic components

Biotic components of an ecosystem can be described under the following three heads:

1. Producers (Autotrophic components),

2. Consumers, and

3. Decomposers or reducers and transformers

Producers (Autotrophic elements): The producers are the autotrophs, chiefly green plants. The

chemical energy is actually locked up in the energy rich carbon compounds. This is used in

respiration by all living things. In Shyamnagar Sundari and Gewa occur prominently throughout the

area with discontinuous distribution of Dhundul (Xylocarpus granatum) and Kankra (Bruguiera

gymnorrhiza). Among grasses and Palms, Poresia coaractata, Myriostachya wightiana, Imperata

cylindrica, Phragmites karka, Nypa fruticans are examples of producers.

Consumers: - Those living members of ecosystem which consume the food synthesized by producers

are called consumers. Under this category are included all kinds of animals that are found in an

ecosystem. There are different classes or categories of consumers, such as,

Primary consumers: - These are purely herbivorous animals that include Insects, rodents,

rabbit, deer, cow, buffalo, goat; Humans are some of the common herbivores in the

terrestrial ecosystem, and small crustaceans, mollusks, etc. in the aquatic habitat.

Secondary consumers: - These are carnivores and omnivores. Examples of secondary

consumers are sparrow, crow, fox, wolves, dogs, cats, snakes, Humans etc.

Tertiary consumer: - These are the top carnivores which prey upon other carnivores,

omnivores and herbivores. Tigers, hawk, vulture, etc. are considered as tertiary or top

consumers.

Decomposers: Decomposers and transformers are the living components of the ecosystem and they

are fungi and bacteria. Decomposers attack the dead remains of producers and consumers and

degrade the complex organic substances into simpler compounds. That changes these organic

compounds into the inorganic forms that are suitable for reuse by producers or green plants. The

decomposers and transformers play very important role in maintaining the dynamic nature of

ecosystems.

MAJOR TYPES OF ECOSYSTEMS: -

Major Ecosystem can be classified as Terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem. Both aquatic and terrestrial

ecosystems are present in the surrounding Shyamnagar area.

19

The dominating aquatic ecosystem includes brackish water ecosystem. The geological position of the

area and different natural calamity make the area slightly saline which is known as brackish

environment. This region has both the influence of terrestrial and marine environment making the

area quietly unfit for crop production as northern zone.

BIODIVERSITY: -

FLORA: - Major plant species found in this area are as follows-

Local name Scientific name Local name Scientific name

Mango Mangifera indica Raintry kory Samanea saman

Sil Koroi Albizia lucida Kadam Anthrocephalus chinensis

Blackberry Syzygium cumini Mahagani Swietenia mahagoni

Jackfruite Artocarpous heterophyllus Barai Zizyphys manuritiana

Simul Bombax ceiba Coconut Cocos nucifera

Litchi Litchi chinensis Paddy Oryza sativa

Sarisa Brassica campestris Tall Borassus fiabillifer

Sundari Heritiera littoralis Keora Sonneratia apetala

Aquatic Ecosystem

Fresh water Ecosystem

Pond and Lake

River and Streem

Brackish water

Ecosystem

Esturian and sea coasts

Manmade Ecosystem

Marine Ecosystem

Deep and shallow ocean

Terrestrial Ecosystem

Forest Ecosystem

Grassland Ecosystem

Manmade Ecosystem

Crop fields ecosystem

Garden Ecosystem

20

FAUNA: - Among various animal species, these followings are significant-

Name Name Name Name

Cow Dog Herring Gulls Spotted Doves

Hen Crow Caspian Terns Red Junglefowls

Goat Monkey Brahminy Ducks Common Mynahs

Deer Pegion Spot-billed

Pelicans

Gray Herons

Harriers Jungle Crows, Cotton Teals Jungle Babblers

ENVIRONMENTAL OBSERVATIONS: -

POLLUTION

Pollution is the effects of undesirable changes in our surroundings that have a harmful impact on

plants, animals and human beings. Pollutants are substances that are mainly responsible for the

pollution to occur. Since the dawn of civilization, we – the humans are modifying the natural

environment and ecosystem. This is resulting nothing but the harmful consequences that is causing a

significant amount of loss in the present age and immense amount of harm for the day to come. In

our daily life we are causing several types of pollution in our native environment. Among them,

these followings are very significant in the Shyamnagar area-

Air Pollution

Water Pollution

Land Pollution

AIR POLLUTION: -

Air pollution can be experienced by various ways and many natural as well as anthropogenic

activities are responsible for the generation of air pollutants. There are two major types of air

pollutants. They are-

1. Primary pollutants

2. Secondary Pollutants

90% of the total amount of air pollution is occurred by the primary pollutants while secondary

pollutants contribute only 10%. Among the major primary pollutants of the area, these are

significant-

Dust and particulate matters from rice mills

Automobile emission

Fossil fuel burning (SOx, NOx CO2, CO etc.)

Gases produced from burning of wood, plant and biomass

There are many types and forms of secondary pollutants that are responsible for the generation of

air pollution. These types of pollutants are formed from the reaction of the primary pollutants with

natural and atmospheric gases. H2SO4, HNO3, H2CO3 etc. are among the most common type of

secondary pollutants.

21

WATER POLLUTION: -

Throughout history, the quality of drinking water has been a factor in determining human welfare.

Fecal pollution of drinking water has frequently caused waterborne diseases that have decimated

the populations of whole cities. Unwholesome water polluted by natural sources has caused great

hardship for people forced to drink it or use it for irrigation. Currently, waterborne toxic chemicals

pose the greatest threat to the safety of water supplies in industrialized nations. The presence of

industrial factories and their number is very few in the area. As a result, they contribute relatively

small amount of water pollutants than the other areas of Bangladesh. The major amount of water

pollution is occurred by the use of chemical insecticides, pesticides and other hazardous chemicals.

Pollutants that are responsible for water pollution are of 2 types.

1. Point source pollutants

2. Non-point sources

Disease causing agents such as virus, bacteria, protozoa etc. are some very common type of water

pollutants. For example E. coli, Streptococcus etc. are some of them.

High BOD, oxygen depleting wastes, plant nutrients (NPK), fertilizer, pesticides, acids, salts, toxic

metals (As, Hg, Lead) etc. are among the most significant water pollutants of the area.

LAND POLLUTION: -

Land of the area is historically very fertile. But the practice of over cultivation and application of

chemical fertilizers and pesticides are significantly reducing the fertility of the soil. Change in the

drainage pattern of the area is also causing harm to the fertility of the soil. Sometimes, many natural

disasters such as cyclone, tsunami, storm surge, thunder storm etc. are responsible for the

degradation of land resources.

HAZARD: -

Tropical cyclone: - Tropical cyclones are possibly the most destructive of natural phenomena in their

combination of violence, duration and size of area affected. Cyclones are low pressures systems

around which the air circulates in an anti-clockwise direction in the northern hemisphere.

Cyclones those hit the coastal areas of Bangladesh, usually forms in the ‘Intertropical Convergence

Zone’ situated between 5 and 10 degree latitudes of the Indian Ocean. These cyclones, afterward,

directed above 6-9 km from the sea surface towards the coast through accelerating speed and force

by wind blowing.

Therefore, the cyclone accompanied with torrential rain and devastating tidal surge causes havoc to

lives and property in the cyclone path, and the environment in the affected area. In the islands and

coastal mainland of Bangladesh the major aftermaths of a cyclone are losses of human lives,

livestock’s, fishes, agricultural properties and production, inundation of land and ponds by saline

water, loss of houses, break-down of sanitation system, non-availability of safe drinking water and

food stuff.

Storm surge: - A storm surge is a shoal-water process generated by tropical cyclones. It is defined as

a super elevation of sea level due to a combination of wind-driven water and an uplift induced by

the pressure drop. The sea level can rise to immense heights as a tropical cyclone center arrives at

Coastal erosion is another serious problem that affects several countries of South Asia.

22

Marine erosion: -The southwest coast of India, along the state of Kerala, is well known for marine

erosion. This coast is eroding at the rate of six meters annually. Like all other coastal areas, coastal

erosion is also a great hazard of Satkhira and Shyamnagar. Erosion hazard is greatest during the

monsoons. The southwest monsoon from May-September generates waves of high intensity.

ARSENIC CONTAMINATION: -

The greatest natural hazard currently being confronted by Bangladesh is the contamination of

groundwater by ARSENIC. The number of arsenic patients is increasing alarmingly in Kalaroa and

Debhata upazilas of the district in recent times, reports BSS. A total of 748 people are reported to

have been attacked with arsenic related diseases in the two upazilas of the district. Of the total 748

arsenic patients, 683 are reported from Kalaroa upazila and 65 from Debhata upazila. The victims

include farmers, day labourers and housewives. Most of the arsenic affected people are poor and in

the absence of treatment facilities, they are passing their days in anxiety. According to official

sources of the total patients 12 are reported from Helatola union, 73 from Keralkata, 16 from

Sonabaria, 96 from Joynagar, 24 from Chandanpur, 46 from Jugikhali, 52 from Keragachi, 83 from

Kushkhali, 60 from Diara, 37 from Langaljhara, 85 from Jalalabad and 79 from Kaila union under

Kalaroa upazila and 15 from Sakhipur, 12 from Debbata Sadar, nine from Noapara, 16 from Kulia and

13 from Parulia under Debhata upazila.

23

The patients were detected in Kalaroa upazila during the recent survey conducted by Society on

Health and Care (SOHAC) and in Debhata upazila conducted by Community Health Department

Society (CHDS) with the help of Public Health Engineering Department (PHED) and NGOs under

Bangladesh Arsenic Mitigation Water Supply Project (BAMWSP).

According to the survey report, water of 16,962 tube-wells out of the total 17,811 under Kalaroa

upazila was tested, of which 16,146 tube-wells were found to contain high percentage of arsenic. In

Debhata upazila, 8,678 tube-wells were found as arsenic contaminated.

The survey found 95.19 per cent tube-wells in Kalaroa upazila and 72 per cent tube-wells in Debhata

upazila were containing water with arsenic beyond permissible limit. Anxious people of these areas

have been desperately trying to collect water from deep tube-wells, which are few and far between.

MITIGATION: -

Mitigation government, non-government and international organisations are working on arsenic

mitigation in Bangladesh. The government has taken up BAMWSP with a loan from the World Bank.

A number of techniques have been used by government, international and non-government

agencies for mitigating the problem, which has become a very big public health issue.

Household level arsenic removals a number of techniques have been developed to remove

arsenic from drinking water at household level, ie smallscale removal plants or filters. The

available techniques include 3-kalsi method, safi filter, SOES-filter, 2-bucket system, passive

24

sedimentation, etc. These techniques are used at household level where arsenic

contaminated water is passed through a filtering unit to remove arsenic and make the water

fit for drinking.

Very shallow tubewells and dugwells very shallow tubewells and dugwells (less than 10m

deep) have been found to be arsenic free in most parts of the country and are being

considered as an alternative source of arsenic-free drinking water. However, microbial

contamination in this type of groundwater is normally high, as is the amount of nitrate.

Pond sand filter this is a slow sand filter that utilises pond water. A sand filter is constructed

near a reserved pond and this can provide arsenic and bacteria free drinking water.

However, maintenance is a major problem.

Rainwater harvesting rainwater is also being considered as a source of arsenic-free water, at

least during the monsoon. Rainwater is collected and stored in large earthen or Ferro

cement jars for drinking.

Deep groundwater so far the deeper groundwater (>150m) has been found to be mostly

arsenic-free, particularly in the coastal belt of Bangladesh. Deeper groundwater is

considered a long-term source of safe drinking water.

Treated surface water surface water normally contains very large amounts of

microbiological contaminants. Where available, surface water can be treated to provide safe

drinking water.

Arsenic removal plant large-scale arsenic removal plants can be built to remove

arsenic from the water supply in municipal areas where piped water supply exists. A

number of such plants have been built at MANIKGANJ, Meherpur and Satkhira.

25

KALIGANJ UPAZILA

KALIGANJ UPAZILA - AT A GLANCE

COORDINATES: : 22°27′N

89°2.5′E

DISTRICT: - Satkhira

BOUNDARY: - DEBHATA and

ASSASUNI upazilas on the

north, SHYAMNAGAR upazila

on the south, Assasuni and

Shyamnagar upazilas on the

east, West Bengal of India on

the west.

AREA: - 333.79 km2

MAIN OCCUPATIONS:

Agriculture 32.28%, fishing

1.16%, agricultural labourer

27.6%, wage labourer 4.74%,

handloom 1.24%, industry

2.31%, transport 3.16%,

commerce 15.3%, service

3.98%, and others 8.23%.

POPULATION: 225596; male

51%, female 49%

LITERACY RATE: Average literacy 32.3%; male 41.8% and female 22.4%.

RELIGION: Muslim 79.65%, Hindu 20.29% and others 0.06%.

RELIGION: Muslim 79.65%, Hindu 20.29% and others 0.06%.

EDUCATIONAL INSTITUTIONS: - College 4, collegiate school 2, technical school 1, high school 26,

junior high school 2, government primary school 86, non-government primary school 35.

MAIN CROPS: - Paddy, wheat, brinjal, betel leaf, potato, patal.

MAIN RIVERS: - ICHAMATI, Kakshiali, Kalindi and Little Jamuna.

INDUSTRIES: - Ice factory 5, flour mill 1, and rice mill 7. Cottage industries

26

LOCATION: -

Kaliganj Upazila (SATKHIRA district) with an area of 333.79 km2, is bounded by DEBHATA and ASSASUNI

upazilas on the north, SHYAMNAGAR upazila on the south, Assasuni and Shyamnagar upazilas on the

east, West Bengal of India on the west. Main rivers are ICHAMATI, Kakshiali, Kalindi and Little Jamuna.

. The upazila consists of 12 union parishads, 243 mouzas and 249 villages.

Kaliganj (Town) consists of six mouzas. The area of the town is 7.96 sq km. It has a population of

13518; male 53.25%, female 46.75%; density of populations is 1698 per sq km. The town has one

dakbungalow.

SHORT HISTORY: -

Kaliganj was announced as a thana in 1942 while it was turned into an upazila in 1983. There are

many important Archaeological heritage and relics Fort present in the surrounding area that

represents a robust historical background of the upazila. We can found many historical buildings in

the village Mukundapur built by Bikramaditya and Basanta Roy, Parbajpur Mosque (Mukundapur),

Madinar Dargah (Bishnupur), Nabaratna Mandir at village Basantapur built by Bikramaditya.

GEOLOGY AND HYDROGEOLOGY: -

The geology of the coastal area is part of the Quaternary geology of the Bengal Basin. Sediments

from early Ganges-Brahmaputra-Meghna river systems were deposited over the northern and

eastern parts of the basin during Pleistocene period. Tectonic movements and sea level changes

between Pleistocene and recent periods have allowed deep erosion and deposition on the

Pleistocene surface. The geological features of kaliganj are mainly composed of medium and fine

sands, clay, silty clay and sandy clay unit. A continuos clay-silty clay layer of varying thickness from

few centimeters to 60m occurs at the top. This top clay layer is underlain by medium to fine sand,

silty sand and sandy clay alternations and is followed by a clay, silty-sandy clay layer occurring at

different depths ranging from 80 to 285 m.

Figure: - Geological profiles in Kaliganj.

Three aquifers (First, Second and Third) are confirmed to continuously distributed in Kaliganj area as

shown in Figure. Clayey layer generally becomes thicker in Satkhira area and boundary of aquifer

becomes deeper into Kaliganj.

The first aquifer composed of sandy layer that is mainly distributed in Satkhira area. Clayey

layer is distinguished in southern part of Kaliganj area. First aquifer is the target layer of

shallow tube well and high contaminated zone of arsenic.

27

The second aquifer comprises with clayey layer which is distributed in only southern part of

Satkhira, two clayey layers are distributed in almost all Satkhira and Kaliganj area. Second

aquifer is divided into upper part and lower part. Second aquifer has different geological

situation from place to place and characteristics of both shallow aquifer and deep aquifer. A

risk of arsenic contamination in Second aquifer is assumed to be low toward south.

Third aquifer is rarely confirmed on geological log due to become deeper in Kaliganj area,

about 270-298m.

WEATHER AND CLIMATE: -

Weather and climate of the area is similar to the other coastal districts and regions. Temperature of

this area shows high variation in months of the year. Maximum temperature recorded is around

30 °C during summer; lowest is 16 °C in winter. Humidity is moderate throughout the year. Wind

flow varies during adverse environmental condition. Precipitation of the area varies within 290mm

to 20mm. The overall climatic and weather condition of Kaliganj upazila can be described by the

following table,

Table: - The overall climatic condition of Kaliganj upazila.

RESOURCES: -

Kaliganj Upazila is full of many significant amounts of resources. We use these resources in various

ways for the growth and development of our society in various ways. Among these resources, these

followings are some important ones: -

1. Forest Resource

2. Water Resource

3. Land Resource

4. Food Resource

5. Energy Resource

6. Mineral Resource

Parameters Value

Mean Temperature 22 °C

Max Temperature 30 °C

Min Temperature 16 °C

Dew Point 14 °C

Average Humidity 66%

Maximum Humidity 88%

Minimum Humidity 42%

Precipitation 140 mm

Wind Speed 2 km/h

Max Wind Speed 11 km/h

28

FOREST RESOURCE: -

Kaliganj stands right beside the great Sundarban that is why the influence of the Sundarban is

observed in the area. There are many common trees which are found in that area. For example:-

Mangifera indica, Albizia lucida , Syzygium cumini, Artocarpous heterophyllus, Samanea saman

Anthrocephalus chinensis, Swietenia mahagoni, Zizyphys manuritiana, Bombax ceiba, Litchi

chinensis, Brassica campestris, Cocos nucifera, Oryza sativa, Borassus fiabilliferetc. All of these can

be considered as resources as they can be utilized in two ways -

Direct use of forest products are as follows-

Those can be directly consumed or used by humans. For example: -

Fruits: - Mango, Jackfruit, Berry, Lichi, Guava etc.

Roots: - Discoria, potato etc.

Medicine: - Basak (Adhatoda Vasica), Kalomegh (Andrographis aniculata), Shatomuli

(Asparagus racemosus), Brahmi (Bacopa Moniera), Dhutura (Datura metel) etc.

Fuelwood: - Many species of trees and shrubs

Small timber for building huts, houses and Cottage industries.

Bamboo and cane for breakfasts or building materials.

Grass for grazing and small feeding livestock.

Indirect Uses of the forest includes-

Building material for construction and furniture for urban and rural sector.

Medicinal products collected and processed into drugs which can save many sick peoples.

Gums and resins processed into a variety of products such as rubber, bands ,insulator,

chemicals used as purifier, tanning agent etc.

Raw material for industrial products and chemicals for example: - paper, pulp, juice, soft

drinks, alcohols, particle board, thread etc.

WATER RESOURCE: -

Water resource is an important resource of the area. The local people use a huge volume of water in

different ways. Cultivation of fish is the historical form of the use of water resource in the area.

Especially shrimp and crab culture is very popular in kaliganj area. Some local people are feeling

more and more interest in coastal aqua culture and salt cultivation. These two activities are playing

significant role in the development of the financial and socioeconomic conditions of the surrounding

area. Water is used in varies production industries as well as in agricultural activities. Besides their

positive economic outcomes, many harmful effects and consequences are also experienced in the

area. As a result of over exploitation the As contamination is increasing for the oxidation of arsenate

and Arsenide minerals. So drinking water in that area is really a valuable resource. Sea water

intrusion and the increased level of salinity is the very common problem that we face recently.

LAND RESOURCE: -

Landforms formed from the huge amount of alluvial sediments coming from Padma (Gangas) play

important role in the development of the local social and economic conditions. This area is basically

an agricultural land. Highly fertile land of the area like these is highly potential for the cultivation of

paddy, jute, sugarcane etc. But with the increased use of salt culture, Crab culture and shrimp

culture, the level of salt is increasing day by day. As a result, these highly potential and cultivable

lands are losing their fertility. River bank erosion and due to deforestation process the upper fertile

soil is eroding everyday causing low fertility.

29

FOOD RESOURCE: -

This area provides us with valuable food resources from various sources. Among these sources,

forest, agriculture, animal husbandry ad fishery are important. Due to agricultural and aquacultural

improvement huge amounts of food are available now. Excess foods are now exported that is why

the local people are economically improved.

ENERGY RESOURCE: -

Electricity is not available in every house. Most of the people use petroleum (Kerosene, diesel,

petrol) products for energy consumption. The fuel woods are widely used for cooking purpose. The

residues from agricultural activity, cow dung, feces are used for various parpouses.

MINERAL RESOURCE: -

The presence and extraction of mineral resource is very limited in the Kaliganj area. There is hardly

any mineral resource to be found in the area. The presences of petroleum ad crude hydrocarbons

are yet not discovered. This is mainly because of the nature of the sedimentation and stratigraphic

succession pattern. This area is an example of recent alluvial sedimentation and its sedimentation

stage is not matured yet. That is why the presence of any hydrocarbon or petroleum resource is not

discovered so far.

ECOSYSTEMS: -

Biotic and abiotic compounds of a particular area consists the ecosystem. The components of an

ecosystem can be described under the following three heads:

1. Producers (Autotrophic components),

2. Consumers, and

3. Decomposers or reducers and transformers

Producers: - The producers are the autotrophs, chiefly green plants. The chemical energy is actually

locked up in the energy rich carbon compounds. This is used in respiration by all living things. In

Kaliganj Sundari and Gewa occur prominently throughout the area with discontinuous distribution of

Dhundul (Xylocarpus granatum) and Kankra (Bruguiera gymnorrhiza). Among grasses and Palms,

Poresia coaractata, Myriostachya wightiana, Mangifera indica, Albizia lucida , Syzygium cumini,

Artocarpous heterophyllus, Samanea saman Anthrocephalus chinensis, Imperata cylindrica,

Phragmites karka, Nypa fruticans are examples of producers.

Consumers: - There are different classes or categories of consumers, such as,

Primary consumers: - These are purely herbivorous animals that include Butterfly, moth,

grasshoppers, ant, rodents, rabbit, deer, cow, monkey, buffalo, goat; Humans are some of

the common herbivores in the terrestrial ecosystem, and small crustaceans, mollusks, etc.

in the aquatic habitat.

Secondary consumers: - These are carnivores and omnivores. Examples of secondary

consumers are fox, sparrow, crow, fox, wolves, dogs, cats and wild cats, snakes and many

reptiles, Humans etc.

Tertiary consumer: - These are the top carnivores which prey upon other carnivores,

omnivores and herbivores. Tigers, hawk, vulture, Human etc. are considered as tertiary or

top consumers.

Decomposers: Decomposers and transformers are the components of the ecosystem which convert

dead organic matters into simple nutrients and they are fungi and bacteria. These organic

compounds into the inorganic forms those are suitable for reuse by producers or green plants. The

30

decomposers and transformers play very important role in maintaining the dynamic nature of

ecosystems.

MAJOR TYPES OF ECOSYSTEMS: -

Major Ecosystem can be classified as Terrestrial and aquatic ecosystem. There is both aquatic and

terrestrial ecosystem present in the Kaliganj upazila. The dominating aquatic ecosystem includes

brackish water ecosystem. The geological position of the area and different natural calamity make

the area slightly saline which is known as brackish environment. In the area different food chain

interacts with each other and creates food webs. A simple food chain of aquatic environment in

coastal area is shown in the figure bellow.

Figure: an aquatic food chain.

BIODIVERSITY: -

FLORA: - Major plant species found in this area are as follows-

Local name Scientific name Local name Scientific name

Sundari Heritiera littoralis Raintry kory Samanea saman

Palms Poresia coaractata Sil Koroi Albizia lucida

Blackberry Syzygium cumini Tall Borassus fiabillifer

Kadam Anthrocephalus chinensis Jackfruite Artocarpous heterophyllus

Keora Sonneratia apetala Simul Bombax ceiba

Paddy Oryza sativa Mahagani Swietenia mahagoni

Sarisa Brassica campestris Litchi Litchi chinensis

Barai Zizyphys manuritiana Mango Mangifera indica

Coconut Cocos nucifera Golpata Nypa fruticans

31

FAUNA: - Among various animal species, these followings are significant-

Name Name Name Name

Cow Dog Pegion Goat

Herring Gulls Gray Herons Caspian Terns Red Junglefowls

Monkey Deer Hen Common Mynahs

Brahminy Ducks Crow Spot-billed Pelicans Buffalo

Harriers Jungle Crows, Snakes Jackle

Cotton Teals Fox Jungle Babblers Spotted Doves

ENVIRONMENTAL OBSERVATIONS: -

POLLUTION

The overall pollution in Kaliganj area is not as intense as the industrial areas such as Dhaka, Narsingdi

etc. But the pollution that occurs can be classified as followings: -

Air Pollution

Water Pollution

Land Pollution

AIR POLLUTION: -

Air pollution can be experienced by various ways and many natural as well as anthropogenic

activities are responsible for the generation of air pollutants. Among the air pollutants these are

identified: -

Dust and particulate matters from mills and factories due to production or incomplete

burning of the organic matter.

Automobile emission due to fossil fuel burning. The car, bus, troller emit huge amount of

CO2, NO2, CO, SO2 which can damage the respiratory tract and cause irritation, asthma,

infection etc.

Gases produced from burning of wood, plant and biomass.

There are many types and forms of secondary pollutants that are responsible for the generation of

air pollution. The acid rain is a common type of secondary pollutants which produce H2SO4, HNO3,

H2CO3 etc.

WATER POLLUTION: -

Among different Point source and Non-point sources pollutants are responsible for water pollution.

Among them the followings are most common: -

Disease causing agents such as virus, bacteria, protozoa etc. are some very common type of

water pollutants. For example E. coli, Streptococcus etc. are some of them.

High BOD due to discharging organic effluents in water.

Due to acid rain and soil erosion soil nutrients wash away and in huge accumulation in water

bodies it results eutrophication and algal bloom.

Different fertilizer, pesticides used in agricultural lands can cause water pollution. Causing

death of aquatic organisms.

Different dissolved salts and acidic/alkaline substances can pollute the water.

32

Some toxic heavy metals also pollute the water such as As, Hg, Pb, Cr, etc.

LAND POLLUTION: -

Land of the area is historically very fertile. The practice of solid waste disposal over the land area

pollutes the soil. The practice of over cultivation and application of chemical fertilizers and pesticides

are significantly reducing the fertility of the soil. Sometimes, many natural disasters such as cyclone,

tsunami, storm surge, thunder storm etc. are responsible for the degradation of land resources.

Change in the drainage pattern of the area is also causing harm to the fertility of the soil.

HAZARDS: -

STORM SURGE: -

A storm surge is a shoal-water process generated by tropical cyclones. It is defined as a super

elevation of sea level due to a combination of wind-driven water and an uplift induced by the

pressure drop. The sea level can rise to immense heights as a tropical cyclone center arrives at

Coastal erosion is another serious problem that affects several countries of South Asia. During the

monsoon the devastation is observed in Kaliganj upazila.

ARSENIC CONTAMINATION: -

The Arsenic contamination is also very severe in this zone. Some of the tube well show significant

amount of As, that is why some alternative way of drinking water must be found. Statistical

observation shows that about 20-30% of the tubewells are affected by As contamination. Many

Arsenicosis affected patients are encountered in the area. Most of them are suffering from

Melanosis, Luco-Melanosis, Caratosis, and Hyper-Caratosis etc.

SALINITY: -

Salinity is another problem that is acute in newly accreted lands. It renders the soil uncultivable. In

the coastal belt, saline water has prevented irrigated agriculture in many places. Recently, frequent

tidal bores have extended the area of affected land. Also, in the past decade and a half many

damaging typhoons, with speeds up to 120 miles per hour, have occurred.

TSUNAMIS: -

Tsunamis or seismic sea waves are often incorrectly called tidal waves. They are extremely

destructive and present a serious natural hazard. They are relatively rare and usually confined to the

Pacific Ocean basin. Tsunamis or seismic sea waves apparently originated when water is vertically

displaced during large earthquakes or other phenomena. In open water the waves travel at speed as

great as 800 km per hour and the wave height in deep water may be less than one meter but when

the wave height enter shallow coastal water, then they slow to less than 60 km per hour and the

wave height may increase to more than 15 meters. Damaged caused by Tsunamis or seismic sea

waves is most severe at the water edge, boats, harbor, building, transport system may be destroyed.

COASTAL EROSION: -

Compared to other natural hazards such as earthquakes, tropical cyclones, or floods, erosion of

coasts is generally a continuous, predictable process that causes a relatively small amount of

damage in a restricted area. Nevertheless, coastal erosion has caused and continues to cause

property damage, and large sums of money are spent to control it. As extensive development of

coastal areas for vacation and recreational living continues, problems of coastal erosion are certain

to become a more serious threat to human use.

In addition to wave erosion, processes that attack the sea cliff include biological erosion, weathering,

rain-wash, landslides, and artificially induced erosion. Biological processes facilitate and directly

33

cause some erosion of the sea cliff; for example, coring mollusks, marine worms, and some sponges

can destroy rock. Weathering is significant in wakening the rocks of the sea cliff and acts as an aid to

erosion trees on the top of the sea cliff may have roots that penetrate the rock and wedge them

apart; salt spray may enter the small holes and fractures and, as the water evaporates, the salt

crystallizes, exerting pressure on the rock that weakens it and can break off small pieces, rain wash

can cause a considerable amount of sea cliff erosion; however, the amount of erosion depends upon

the nature and extent of the rainfall and the degradability of the rocks that make up the sea cliff.

TROPICAL CYCLONES: -

The most serious coastal hazard is tropical cyclones, which are claim, many lives and causes

numerous amounts of property damage every year. A tropical cyclone has taken hundreds of

thousands of lives in a single storm. Tropical cyclones that struck the northern Bay of Bengal in

Bangladesh in November of 1970 produced a 6-meter rise in the sea. Flooding killed more than

300000 people and destroyed many properties. Tropical cyclones, known as Typhoon in most of the

Pacific Ocean and Hurricane in the western Hemisphere cause damage and destruction from high

winds flooding that results from intense precipitation and usually causes more deaths and

destruction than wind; and storm surges (wind driven by sea water) that are most lethal aspects of

tropical cyclones. Most Hurricanes form in a belt between 8° north and 15° south of the equator and

the area most likely to experience cyclones in this zone are those with warm surface-water

temperature. The storms are generated as tropical disturbance and despite as they move over the

land. Wind speed of these storms is greater than 100 km per hour, and the winds blow in large spiral

around a relatively calm center called the eye of the Hurricane.

AILA – THE NIGHTMARE

Aila, category 1 cyclone, hit South-Western coastal region of Bangladesh on 25 May 2009. The

cyclone took shape on 23 May and dissipated on 25 May 2009 in the coastal region of Bangladesh.

The sustained wind speed of the Cyclone Aila was about 65-75 mph and thus it is defined as the

category-1 cyclone (74 mph is the lowest threshold for Cat-1 hurricane). Even though Aila was a

weak category cyclone by the definition, its economic cost outweighs the impacts of Super cyclone

‘Sidr’ and brought in long-term sufferings for the southwestern people of Bangladesh. About 2.3

million people were affected by Aila and many of them stranded in flooded villages as they had no

alternative to save themselves.

34

GENESIS:-

Southwest monsoon set in over Andaman Sea and adjoining south Bay of Bengal on 20th May 2009.

Under its influence, the southerly surge over the region increased. It resulted in increase in the

horizontal pressure gradient and the north south wind gradient over the region. Hence the lower

level horizontal convergence and relative vorticity increased gradually over the southeast Bay of

Bengal. It led to the development of the upper air cyclonic circulation extending up to mid

tropospheric level on 21st May over the southeast Bay of Bengal and associated convective cloud

clusters persisted over the region. The system could gain upper level divergence as the upper

tropospheric ridge roughly ran along 17°. In association with an anti-cyclonic circulation located near

latitude 17° N and longitude 94°E. The quick scat derived wind speed was about 10-15 knots on 21st

and 22nd. It became 15-20 knots on 23rd. Under the favorable conditions, the depression moved

mainly in a northerly direction and intensified into a deep depression and lay centered at 830 hours

IST of 24th near 18.0°N and 88.5°E. It further intensified into a cyclonic storm ‘AILA’ at 1730 hours IST

of 24th May and lay centered near 18.5°N and 88.5°E.

AILA IMPACTS ON SATKHIRA DISTRICT: -

Among the affected districts, Satkhira receives the highest amount of impacts in its infrastructures

including educational institutions, religious institutions, roads, bridges, embankments etc. The study

reveals that 734 institutions were damaged fully or partially. The adverse impacts of Aila were

observed in 7 Upazilas and 48 unions of Satkhira District. However, Shyamnagar and Ashasuni are

the most affected Upazila as reported by the local source and available data. The study reveals that

more than fifty thousand people have been adversely affected by Aila flooding. On the other hand,

total damaged cropland is about 1250 ha. Moreover, 59 people died and 1509 injured during Aila.

Aila’s impact on infrastructure also presents devastating scenario. 734 educational institutions

including the religious institutions, 329.25 km roads, 41 bridges or culverts, 292.42 km embankment

and 26028 ha shrimp farm (gher) were fully or partially damaged. Besides these, more than thirty

thousand people positioned themselves on the embankment at Gabura and Padmopukur, as they

did not get any safe place for their immediate shelter during the disaster. Table 1 and 2 showing

description of the damage in Satkhira District.

Table 1: Damage information of Satkhira District

Description Damage information

Satkhira District Affected total upazila =7

Affected union (no.) Very high=10, high=20, partial=48

Affected population 569810

Affected family 132544

People died 59

People injured 1509

Full Partial Total

Damaged households (no.) 106325 49195 155520

Damaged croplands (ha) 812 453 1265

35

Damaged education Institutes and temples (no.) 136 598 734

Roads (km) 179.75 149.5 329.5

Bridge/culvert/closure (no.) 41 - 41

Embankment (km) 35.9 256.52 292.42

Shrimp farm (ha) 26028

Source: District damage assessment report, as of 22-07-2009.

Table 2: Summary of the damaged infrastructure in Satkhira District

Damage description

Upazila Edu. Ins. and

temples (no.)

Road (km) Bridge/

culvert

(no.)

Embankment

(km)

People took

Shelter

full partial full partial full partial

Shyamnagar 10 141 99.75 23.5 41 26.18 111 Cyclone shelter:

Gabura=3000 (5)

Padmopukur=29

50 (6)

Embankment:

Gabura=13000

Padmopukur=15

000

Ashasuni 33 7 55 36 - 3.6 75.67

Kaliganj 2 147 64 0.32 32

Sadar 0 90 0 16 - 0.3 13.85

Debhata 62 114 0 0 - 0.5 14

Kolaroya 28 40 0 0 - 0 0

Tala 1 59 25 10 - 5 10

Total 136 598 179.75 149.5 41 35.9 256.52 Total 33950

Source: District Commissioner Office, Satkhira

INFRASTRUCTURE DAMAGES AT SHYAMNAGAR UPAZILA:

Source: Upazila Nirbahi Office, Shyamnagar

0

5000

10000

15000

20000

25000

30000

Affected population at different unions of Shyamnagar Upazila

Very high

High

Partial

36

Shayamnagar is the perfect epitome of Aila ravage as it was most vehemently seized with Aila attack.

Besides the accounted damage, a large number of households and small infrastructures were

damaged. In Gabura and Padmapukur union, more than 34 thousand people became homeless and

among them 6 thousand people are still living in the nearby cyclone shelter and the rest 28 thousand

are staying in makeshift tents or under the open sky on embankments. Household damage statistics

estimates that about 160432 people were adversely affected, where 104227, 22865 and 33340

people were very highly affected, highly affected and partly affected respectively.

IMPACT OF AILA ON AGRICULTURE AND LIVESTOCK: -

The vast majority of the population of Shyamnagar is engaged with agriculture and fisheriesand it is

evident from the BBS (2001) statistics which estimates that about 64.98% households in this upazila

depend on agriculture including 38.16% on cropping, livestock, forestry and fishery, and 26.82% on

selling agricultural labor. But after Aila attack, all the agricultural and associated livelihood activities

were disrupted through damaging all agricultural settings in the region. In Shyamnagar upazila total

194 ha of crop land was fully damaged by Aila which worth an estimated cost of 2.4 million BDT.

Moreover, Aila incurred loss of about 550 million BDT in shrimp sector.

PRESENT SOCIO-ECONOMIC AND ENVIRONMENTAL CONDITION IN AILA AFFECTED AREAS: -

After one year of Aila attack, the situation of the Aila affected areas is still with much adversity and

gradually it is aggravating. Till now local people are struggling to get access to food, pure drinking

water and shelter. Majority of the affected people are staying on the embankments in makeshift

tents as their living places are still under water. Some of their agricultural land is still under water or

have become barren from saline water intrusion. Sanitation and health care facilities have become

scarce. A number of schools or other educational institutions still remain closed and dropout rate is

alarmingly on the rise. It is importantly noticeable that woman and children are the most vulnerable

under this inhuman situation.

LIVELIHOOD: -

Shrimp farming is one of the major occupations in South-western coastal region of Bangladesh. Aila

affected region also follows similar occupational pattern and shrimp farming alone constitutes 40%

of the total occupation. Rest of the employed people an engaged with small holding agriculture

(30%) and wage labour activities (30%). However, the study reveals that 96% of the livelihood bases

were devastated by Aila. Most unfortunate thing is that till now most of the affected people could

not be able to recover the damages. More than 80% of the respondents in all the three study areas

are struggling to maintain a subsistence living. The most affected segment of the livelihood is

agriculture and as almost all the productive agriculture land went under saline water and

consequently those farmers became workless.

AGRICULTURE AND VEGETATION: -

In the study areas almost all the agriculture land (>90%) and homestead gardens (>70%) were

flooded and 70% of the green vegetation were damaged. Most of the water sensitive fruit trees and

vegetables died due to water logging. Only some Palme and Xerophitic species still survive.

LIVESTOCK AND POULTRY: -

Livestock and poultry are also important economic resources for the Aila affected area. In

Shyamnagar 85% respondents said that Aila damaged their 80% livestock resources. However, this

percentage was higher at Gabura (93%) and Padmopukur (95%) unions of the same upazila in

respect of the average damage. On the other hand, in Koyra and Dacope, Aila damaged 75%

livestock and poultry resources which significantly have reduced their farm income. The livestock

37

and poultry death is continuing even after Aila due to food and drinking water shortage. Now most

of the houses are devoid of livestock and poultry resources in the affected area and many farmers

are selling their remaining livestock as they cannot provide them with adequate food and drinking

water.

HOUSEHOLD RELOCATION: -

Even after one year of Aila dissipation, only 30% families have been able to repair or reconstruct

their houses. However, the relocated houses are mostly temporary and made of plastic sheets and

bamboo which is demonstrating their financial and structural inability to reconstruct durable brick

built or wooden houses. These houses are at risk of further structural damage even with an 80 km

speed wind. Majority of the Aila affected people in the study areas were forced to relocate their

houses in embankments or raised land due to abolition of their houses by tidal surge and

subsequent water logging. Regrettably, even after one year of Aila, 70% families are still living on the

embankment in makeshift tents at different sites of the Shyamnagar, Koyra (Uttar Bedkashi and

Dakshin Bedkashi) and Dacope (Sutarkhali, Kamarkhola) upazila. Results indicate that the 95%

(highest) Aila affected family were forced to relocate their households at Dakshin Bedkashi union

and 80% at Padmopukur unions. Besides, 89%, 84%, 87% and 83% family relocated their households

at Gabura, Sutarkhali, Uttar Bedkashi and Kamarkhola union, respectively.

DRINKING WATER SUPPLY AND SANITATION: -

The people of the study area received the highest amount of sufferings from drinking water shortage

and destruction of sanitation facilities soon after Aila attack. However, still the affected people are

suffering from shortage of pure drinking water, which is evident from all respondents’ response and

physical visit to the area. Water supply and sanitation coverage was about 50-60% before Aila.

However, Aila devastated all the drinking water sources (ponds and tube wells). During Aila, high

tidal surges contaminated all fresh water sources with polluted saline water. Many people are

compelled to drink such polluted water as they do not have any other option and consequently

suffer from water borne diseases such as allergy, skin diseases, cholera and diarrhea. Currently, for

curative measures affected peoples’ medical cost has increased by 55%.

FOOD AND NUTRITION INTAKE: -

It is found that almost all the people in the affected area are now taking food irregularly. All the

respondents in the study areas used to take food 3 times a day before Aila. However, Aila reversed

the situation and now many people have to content with 1 time food intake or hardly 2 times in a

day. Reportedly, 4 people including 1 child died in Koyra due to starvation or taking poisonous food.

In Shyamnagar, Koyra and Dacope area respectively 93%, 96% and 98% respondents said that after

Aila they are still with insufficient food and so, suffering from malnutrition. About 75% respondents

identified reduced family income as the major cause of their insufficient food taking. On the other

hand, 25% respondents blamed increase of the food prices as the primary cause.

MIGRATION: -

Aila resulted into significant migration from the affected areas of Satkhira and Khulna district. The

study reveals that 20%, 18% and 15% families have already been migrated from Koyra, Dacope and

Shyamnagar respectively. Most of them have migrated to Khulna, Satkhira, Bagerhat, Pirojpur,

Borishal, Potuakhali, Gopalganj, Faridpur, Jessore and Narail. About 55% respondents estimated that

a large number of families (about 10%) are now living in the nearby city areas; but they temporarily

return for getting relief, when it is distributed. Our study reveals that from Koyra about 1200 families

have permanently migrated, whereas from Dacope and Shyamnagar these numbers are about 800

38

and 1300 respectively. Most of people have migrated to Khulna, Satkhira, Rangamati, Dumuria,

Doulatpur, Jessore and Kesobpur areas for looking jobs. Some people have also migrated to West

Bengal of India in search of jobs. Where as, about 3000, 1500 and 1300 families have migrated

temporarily from Shyamnagar, Koyra and Dacope.

RECOMMENDATIONS: -

Even after one year of Aila attack, people of the affected areas are still suffering from

insufficient food, water, shelter and sanitation facilities. It is, therefore, of utmost

importance to ensure at least subsistence living requirements to the affected people.

The study identifies drinking water scarcity as the major problem of the affected area.

Therefore, a sufficient number of tube-well should be erected through a soft loan scheme or

nonrefundable donation.

NGOs can help the local communities to pump-out saline water from the affected pond.

Alternatively, Pond Sand Filter (PSF) could be introduced to the affected area.

As most of the agricultural land is still submerged under water, floating agriculture system

with short rotation crop species should be introduced without any delay. Moreover, saline

and water resistant seed should be provided to the farmers with free of cost to cultivate

saline contaminated land.

Since the entire livelihood option in the affected area was destroyed by Aila and the affected

people became workless, employment generating activities such as food for work, small

scale Entrepreneurship should be run with equitable and fair representation of all affected

people.

Moreover, alternative livelihood opportunities should be created by using locally available

natural resources. In long term, small scale job opportunities may be introduced from the

local investors, government and NGOs.

Training on craft, tailoring, poultry and fish feed firming, ice factory, umbrellas’ bat factory,

match factory, cold storage and other small and medium scale industries may be introduced

to alleviate the poverty and reduce vulnerability of the local people.

Damaged embankments and communication system should be repaired, and where

necessary reconstructed, as priority basis to protect the affected area from further flooding

and tidal surges. Height of the embankments should be increased together with proper

afforestation with suitable tree species at both sides of the embankments.

The relief programmer should be run through ensuring equity and in a well-coordinated way

until the affected people can recover their damage. Government’s VGF programmer should

focus the affected area as priority area. Moreover, monitoring of the relief distribution

activities should be enhanced through the public participation and resources mobilization.

Since most of the people have become homeless and are still living in temporary makeshift

tents in embankments and other areas, NGOs and different financial institutions can provide

local people with long term low interest or no interest loan to reconstruct their houses.

Collaboration among organizations (GOs and NGOs) and the local community should be

ensured to reduce vulnerabilities of the local people. Disaster preparedness programmer

should focus awareness and capacity building of the local people to increase their adaptive

capacity in facing different natural calamities.

At present, number of cyclone shelter is not enough to protect maximum number of people

at the study sites. Therefore, sufficient number of cyclone shelters should be constructed at

the sites before any other cyclone attack.

39

THE SUNDARBANS

LOCATION: -

Mangroves (generally) are trees and shrubs that grow in saline coastal habitats in the tropics and

subtropics. The word is used in at least three senses:

1. Most broadly to refer to the habitat and entire plant assemblage or mangal, for which the

terms mangrove swamp and mangrove forest are used

2. To refer to all trees and large shrubs in the mangal

3. Narrowly, to refer to the mangrove family of plants, the Rhizophoraceae, or even more

specifically just to mangrove trees of the genus Rhizophora

According to these facts the Sundarbans is the largest single block of tidal halophytic mangrove

forest in the world, which lies at the mouth of the Ganges and is spread across areas of Bangladesh

(southern part) and West Bengal, India, forming the seaward fringe of the delta. The forest lies a

little south to the Tropic of Cancer between the latitudes 21°30’N and 22°30 'N, and longitudes

89°00’ and 89°55’E.

GEOGRAPHY:

The total area of Sundarban is about 19,500 sq km & Bangladesh covers about 6017 sq km, of which

about 1,874 sq km is occupied by water bodies.

Figure: - Sundarbans of Bangladesh.

Another study says the total area of the Sundarbans in Bangladesh and India is 10 thousand square

kilometers of which the Bangladesh portion is 5 thousand 772.85 square kilometers. 70% of the

Sundarbans is forested. The 30% consists of rivers, canals and creeks. This forest is 44% of the total

forest of Bangladesh.

To the north of the Sundarbans are Shyamnagar in Satkhira district Koira and Dahape in Khulna

district and Mongla, Morelganj, and Sarankhola in Bagerhat district. To the south is the Bay of

40

Bengal. The western border follows the Raimangal- Harinbhahga Rivers, which also forms the

international boundary with India. To the east lies the Baleswar River and Meghna estuary.

GEOLOGY: -

The tract of the Sundarbans is of recent origin, raised by the deposition of sediments formed due to

soil erosion in the Himalayas. The process has been accelerated by tides from the sea face. The

substratum consists mainly of Quaternary Era sediments, sand and silt mixed with marine salt

deposits and clay. Geologists have detected a southeastern slope and tilting of the Bengal basin

during the Tertiary. Because of neo-tectonic movements during the 10th-12th century AD, the

Bengal Basin titled eastward. Evidence from borehole studies indicate that while the western side of

the Sundarbans is relatively stable, the southeastern corner is an active sedimentary area and is

subsiding.

Figure: - Floodplains of Sundarbans

PHYSIOGRAPHY: -

The forest along the Bay of Bengal has evolved over the millennia through natural deposition of

upstream sediments accompanied by intertidal segregation. The physiography is dominated by

deltaic formations that include innumerable drainage lines associated with surface and subaqueous

levees, splays and tidal flats. There are also marginal marshes above mean tide level, tidal sandbars

and islands with their networks of tidal channels, subaqueous distal bars and proto-delta clays and

silt sediments. The Sundarbans' floor varies from 0.9 m to 2.11 m above sea level. In south, there is

evidently the greatest seasonal variation in salinity levels and possibly represents an area of

relatively longer duration of moderate salinity. In the west, areas are supported by drier ground and

river banks and levees.

SOIL: -

Soils of the Sundarbans mangrove forest differ from other inland soils in that they are subjected to

the effects of salinity and water logging, which naturally affect the vegetation. In places soils are

semi-solid and poorly consolidated. The pH ranges widely from 5.3 to 8.0. Although the Sundarbans

soil is in general medium textured, sandy loam, silt loam or clay loam, the grain size distribution is

highly variable. Silt loam is dominant textural class. Sodium and calcium contents of the soil vary

from 5.7 to 29.8 mq/100g dry soil and are generally low in the eastern region and higher towards the

west. The available potassium content of the soil is low, 0.3-1.3 mg/100gm dry soil. Organic matter

41

content varies between 4% and 10% in dry soil. Soil salinity increases from east (slight to moderate)

to west (highly saline), but the salinity is not uniform from north to south throughout the forest.

CLIMATE: -

Since the forest is located on the south of the Tropic of Cancer and bounded by the northern limits

of the Bay of Bengal, it is classified as tropical moist forest. Rainfall is heavy and humidity high (80%)

due to the proximity of the Bay of Bengal. About 80% of the rain fall in the monsoon, this lasts from

June to October. Mean annual rainfall varies from about 1,800mm at Khulna, north of the

Sundarbans, to 2,790mm on the coast. There is a six-month dry season during which

evapotranspiration exceeds precipitation. Conditions are most saline in February-April; the depletion

of soil moisture being coupled with reduced freshwater flow from upstream.

The average annual maximum and minimum temperatures vary between 30° and 21°C. High

temperatures occur from mid-March to mid-June and low in December and January. The mean

maximum temperature for the hottest months has been recorded as 32.4°C at Patuakhali, in the east

of the Sundarbans. Temperatures rise from daily minima of 2-4°C in winter to a maximum of about

43°C in March and may exceed 32°C in the monsoon. Storms are common in May and October-

November and may develop into cyclones, usually accompanied by tidal waves of up to 7.5m high

(Seidensticker and Hai, 1983).

MAJOR RIVER SYSTEM: -

The rivers and canals spread like net across the forest with innumerable branches. Nearly 450 large

& small rivers occupy about 175685 hectares or about 30% of the Sundarbans. The biggest is the

Pusur, Other worth mentioned are, Baleswar, Sibsa, Arpangasia, BhoJa, Harinbhahga, Kalindi,

Andharmanik, Raimangal, Kapothaksha, Koira, Shela Bhadra etc. The Harinbhahga & Baleswar are in

the east of the forest. The south-east on eastern border of Satkhira district is the Arpangasia and

Kapothaksha rivers. Raimangal & Harinbhahga are the biggest river of western border of Sundarban.

The rivers are widening to the south. Pusur, Baleswar &their tributaries & distributaries are

connected with Ganges. So their flow is of sweet water. But rivers of western part are dependent on

rain forest for sweet water source. As a result they suffer from salinity in the dry season. But the

overall river condition of Sundarban is deteriorating. Shoals are forming and navigability is declining.

River erosion is taking place at some places.

BIODIVERSITY

FLORAL COMPOSITION: -

The mangroves of the Sundarbans are unique when compared to non-deltaic coastal mangrove

forest. Unlike the later, the Rhizophoraceae are of only minor importance and the dominant species

are Sundari (Heritiera fames), from which the Sundarbans takes its name, and Gewa (Excoecaria

agallocha). The reason for this difference is the large freshwater influence in the north-eastern part

and the elevated level of the ground surface. The Sundarbans can be classified as moist tropical serai

forest, comprising a mosaic of beach forest and tidal forest (Champion, 1936). Of the later, they are

four types:

Low mangrove forests

Tree mangrove forests

Salt-water Heritiera forests

42

FRESHWATER HERITIERA FORESTS: -

The vegetation is largely of mangrove type and encompasses a variety of plants including trees,

shrubs, grasses, epiphytes, and lianas. Being mostly evergreen, they possess more or less similar

physiological and structural adaptations. Prain (1903) gives an account of the flora of the mangrove

forest of the Ganges-Brahmaputra delta & Seidensticker and Hai (1983) report a total of 334 plant

species, representing 245 genera, present in the Bangladesh portion of the delta, and principal

woody and herbaceous species. Of these-

Pteridophytes -17

Monocotyledons -87

Dicotyledons -rest

Almost all mangrove plant species are evergreen, dwarf, shrubby or tall trees, and grow gregariously

without leaving any space on the floor. Most trees have pneumatophores for aerial respiration. The

prominent species is Sundari (Heritiera fomes) and Gewa (Excoecaria agallocha).

In the Sundarbans the saltwater forest is situated in the south-western part where Gewa (E.

agallocha), Goran (Ceriops decandra), Keora (Sonneratia apetala), Ora (S. caseolaris), Passur

(Xylocarpus mekongensis), Dhundul (X granatum), Bain (A vicennia alba, A. marina, A. officinales),

rhizophores, Banchandan, Hijal, Bhatkathi, Amur, Hudo, Shingra, Bhadal, Khalsha, Hingey, and Hantal

(Phoenix pelludosa) dominate. The typical mangrove species dominate the central part of the forest.

The moderate saltwater forest covers most of the southern parts of Khulna and Bagerhat districts

where Sundari is the dominant species. There is a thick mat of the NIPA PALM or 'Golpata' (Nipa

fruticans) by the side of almost all the canals. Moderately freshwater zone results from the large

amount of water, which flows down the Passur, Haringhata and Burisher, maintaining the surface

water at a lower level of salinity.

43

TABLE: MAJOR FLORAL SPECIES OF SUNDARBAN

GENERAL NAME SCIENTIFIC NAME

Sundari Heritiera fomes

Gewa E agallocha

Goran Ceriops decandra

Golpata Nipa fruticans

Keora Sonneratia apetala

Passur Xylocarpus mekongensis

Dhundul X. granatum

Bain Avicennia alba, A. marina, A. officinales

rhizophores Rizophoraceae

Hantal Phoenix pelludosa

Ora S. caseolaris

FAUNAL COMPOSITION: -

Over the last 100 years or so, due to habitat degradation and ecological changes, the faunal

compositions in Indian Sundarbans have undergone changes. Some animals of Sundarbans became

extinct during the last two centuries like Javan Rhino, Wild buffalo, Swamp deer and barking deer.

Sundarban mangrove forest is the single largest home of the Royal Bengal Tiger (Panthera tigris).

The Sundarbans and the Royal Bengal Tiger are almost synonymous. But with the passing time the

number of tigers in the Sundarbans is diminishing at an alarming rate. The number will be 450 but

experts believe that it is more or less 200. According to different sources, there are 375 species of

wild animals in the Sundarbans. Of them, 10 are amphibians, 63 are reptiles, 261 are birds, and 41

are mammals and 175 fish species. Different governmental and non-governmental organizations,

including the forest department, are claiming that there are 200 crocodiles, 80 thousand deer, 20

thousand boars, 40 thousand monkeys, 20 thousand otters, more than 50 thousand birds and snakes

including pythons. Among 175 species of fish 53 of pelagic belong to 27 families, 124 of demersal

belongs to 49 families, 24 shrimps of 5 families. Besides, 7 species of crab from 3 families, 2 of

gastropods, 6 of pelecypod, 8 of locust lobster & 3 species of turtle.

This forest harbors a good number of rare and globally threatened animals including Estuarine

Crocodile (Crocodilus porosus), Fishing Cat (Felts viverrina), Common otter (Lutra littra), Water

Monitor lizard (Varanus saJvatoi), Gangetic Dolphin (Platinista gangetica), Snubfin dolphin (Orcella

brevirostris), River Terrapin (Batagur baska ), marine turtles like Olive Ridley (Lepidochelys

olivacea), Green Sea Turtle (Chelonia mydas), Hawksbill Turtle (Eritmochelys imbricat). Six species

of Shark and Ray, which are found here, are included in Schedule I of Wildlife (Protection) Act.

Other mammals comprise of Wild boars, spotted deer, Porcupines and Rhesus macaque. Among the

reptiles, the King cobra, the common cobra, Banded krait, Russells Viper comprise the community of

venomous reptiles, while the Python, Chequered Kil-Back, Dhaman , Green Whip Snake and several

other species constitute the non-venomous snakes. The common bird species consists of Herons,

44

Egrets, Cormorants, Storks, Green Pigeons, Sand Pipers, Large and Small Spoonbills, Darters,

Seagulls, Teal, Partridges, great variety of Wild Geese and Ducks.

Cetaceans like Snubfin and Gangetic Dolphin are frequently found in the estuarine rivers, the former

being more abundant. The Black Finless Porpoise {Necmeris porosus) is also found in the rivers near

the estuary. The marshes and river offer asylum to the Estuarine Crocodile, one of the most

endangered and the largest of crocodiles. A wide variety and assortments of fish, molluscs, crabs and

prawns inhabit the estuaries. The amphibious mud-skipper fish such as Periopthalmus sp. and

Boleopthalmus sp. arouse considerable interest. Also found are Whale Shark, Tiger Shark, Hammer

Headed Shark, Saw fish, Guitar fish and some common edible fish e.g., Hilsa ilt'sha, Setipinna

breviceps, Setipinna taty, Gudusia chapra etc. Among the crustaceans, commonly found are the

One Asmed Fiddler Crab (Uca spp) and the two species of trilobite (Tachypleus gigus and

Carcinoscorpius rotundicauda). The latter is also known as the Horse Shoe Crab, which is known as a

hving fossil and needs serious protection owing to its medicinal value and uncontrolled collection by

quack doctors for commercial purpose.

Insects abound in the forests amongst which the honey bee {Apis dorssta) is a source of

considerable income for the poor people living in fringe areas.

RESOURCES: -

Sundarban itself a greatest resource as it serves as a habitat for numerous floral & faunal species.

Besides, the resources of the Sundarbans ecosystem include timber wood, fuel wood and non-wood

forest produce, wildlife and aquatic fauna.

TIMBER WOOD: -

It is an important source of forest revenue and adding fuel wood it contributes over 80% of the

income generated by the Sundarbans. A number of industries like former Khulna Newsprint Mill,

Khulna Hardboard Mill, match factories, saw mills, boat mills etc. are greatly depend on the

Sundarbans for the supply of raw materials.

NON-WOOD FOREST PRODUCTIONS: -

This term generally implies to all renewable and tangible products other than timber, fuel wood,

charcoal derived from forest excluding wood, timber in particular. In the Sundarbans about 85%

people who have access to the forest are connected with the harvest of non-wood produce.

FUEL WOOD: -

The Sundarbans is an important source of fuel wood for the local population as well as for distant

markets. Species used fuel wood mainly comprises Ceriops decandra, Cynometra ramiflora,

Lumnitzera racemosa, Amoora cucullata and Hibiscus tiliceous which thrive in the under story of

the forest. Woods are also obtained from the tallest trees.

RURAL HOUSEHOLD MATERIALS: -

Laves of Nypa fruticans are used extensively as thatching and partition material for the construction

of huts in the coastal areas. They are once in a year. Phoenix paludosa is the other useful species of

the family palmae; the stems are used as house posts and rafters.

HONEY & WAX: -

Honey and wax are harvested yearly. The honeybee produces them. Approximately 150,000kg honey

and 40,000kg of wax are harvested between April and June annually.

45

PROBLEMS AND HAZARDS

The Sundarbans is a highly dynamic ecosystem. Natural resources are being tapped from since time

immemorial. Although the ecosystem is under scientific management for over 100 years, harvesting

could not be properly regulated due to demand of the people and illicit removal of the forest

produces. Besides, the environmental condition of the forest area is under constant change. These

have posed serious threat to sustainable management of the Sundarbans. The forest is encountered

with a number of problems affecting its overall productivity.

OVER EXPLOITATION OF RESOURCES: -

There has been over-exploitation of the forest resource possibly due to faulty estimate of volume

increment as well as heavy illicit removal of forest produce. Canopy closure has decreased steadily

over the past several decades. Standing volume of the dominant tree species has drastically

declined.

GEO-MORPHOLOGICAL CHANGES: -

Erosion and compensatory accretion is occurring continuously along the banks of all large rivers, but

the rivers in the Sundarbans are more stable than the main streams of the Gages or the

Brahmaputra, further east. When there are riverbanks cause's disappearances of matured and

valuable stands, in other words losses of forest cover. On newly formed accretions, it takes time to

develop forest crops, particularly those of commercial value that appear at the later stages of

succession. Deposition of silt is another important fact. Silt deposition is low in the western part of

the forest; the forest floor is compacted and does not support vigorous tree growth. Again too much

deposition of silt in the northeastern part of the forest poses treat to the experience and continuity

of mangrove vegetation.

SALINITY INCREASE: -

Generally the members of the family Rhizophoraceae are the climax species of the mangrove

forests. However, in Sundarbans H. fames is the climax species possibly due to its preference for low

level salinity. Due to increase in salinity H. fames is no longer common in the Indian Sundarbans. The

forest does not support healthy stands of this anymore and natural regeneration of sundari (H.

fames) is also unsatisfactory. The dam of Farakka is a reason for the rising of the salinity. The

commercially important species of the Sundarbans have preference for different levels of salinity for

survival, distribution, reproduction and optimal growth. Naturally, any change in the level of salinity

will affect the standing vegetation, the distribution and productivity of the entire ecosystem.

REGENERATION PROBLEMS: -

Plenty of seeding species appear every year on the forest floor. However, recruitment density varied

considerably in different parts of the forests. Further, most of the seedlings disappear soon from the

forest floor. Even 5% of the recruited seedlings did not survive after a period of 33 months. Failure of

the seedlings to survive and establish is a great problem.

LOW YIELD OF WOOD: -

The yield of Sundarbans is low in terms of wood production. The average yield was 1.12m3/ha/year,

1984. But the yield of the well-managed mangrove in Malaysia, Thailand and Indonesia is above

6m3/ha/year.

46

DECLINE OF STOCKING: -

Merchantable growing stock of H. fames and E. agallocha was depleted by 40% and 45%

respectively between 1959 and 1983. Depletion of standing volume is the result of over-cutting

which may be due to overestimate of past increment.

EROSION AND ACCRETION: -

Erosion and compensatory accretion are quite common in the Sundarbans. Many stable lands

supporting rich, healthy valuable matured stands disappear due to the riverbanks. It may be possible

to harvest only mature trees. But future expected yield from the young trees and regeneration will

not be available.

MANAGEMENT ISSUES

One of the most beautiful creations of nature, Sundarban is now losing its beauty extensively for

several anthropogenic and natural causes. Since, many projects & plan has been taken to preserve

the forest though not very sufficient. However, some initiatives that may be taken to preserve the

forest are presented below:

Sundarbans Conservation and Management Plan should be taken 8c applied actively.

Floral & faunal census should be taken up immediately along with provisions for continuous

monitoring;

There should be a National Committee for biodiversity Conservation including experts from

multisectoral disciplines to give advice and monitor conservation activities;

A continuous monitoring system of tiger& other animal populations (status, trend, breeding,

feeding and human casualties, etc.) should be developed. National Committee for

Conservation of Tiger; Departments of Zoology and Environment in local universities, NGOs

and public may participate in the monitoring system;

The entire Sundarbans should be declared as Tiger Reserve with controlled and well-

coordinated human activities allowed. The present sanctuaries should be expanded and

corridors allowed;

An integrated study of animals and their habitat should be taken up;

Concept of Floating Conservation Zone may be taken up to ensure smooth and undisturbed

movement of animals in marine and costal environment during development activities such

as mineral exploration and transportation on shore or off shore;

Wildlife Sanctuaries should be off limit to human activities or commercial exploration.

Floating off limit zone concept may be applied to the present sanctuaries on a selective basis

to allow regeneration of forest and undisturbed breeding by seasonal or annual closing

down of sanctuaries by rotation;

Shrimp cultivation should be brought under control. Hatcheries should be promoted and

properly guided so that fish resources can regenerate. The incidents of fishing inside

Sundarbans with cyanide or other poisonous chemicals should be investigated and stopped;

Legal reforms and measures should be taken up to stop killing of tiger as man eater and deer

shooting and to improve the law and order situation inside the forest and offshore;

Strict legal action should be taken against wood mugger & Poachers and proper managing &

monitoring committee to prevent wood & forest destruction & wood smuggling.

Controlled eco-tourism only should be allowed;

47

Control oil spill, oil pollution and other land and sea bases pollution;

Exploration of the Sundarbans as source of revenue collection should be compared to

biodiversity loss and cost of Sundarbans afforestation;

People who depend on the Sundarbans for their survival should be rehabilitated; educated

and provided with credit. The extent of their exploration and exploitation of forest products

by private business should be studied and controlled;

CONCLUSION

From the available literature review and printed documents so far studied, we may conclude that-

Satkhira is an important South-western district of Bangladesh under Khulna Division. Geo-

environmentally it plays significant role in the country.

People of Satkhira area are mainly farmers. The main crops of this region include Paddy,

jute, sugarcane, mustard seed, potato, and onion and betel leaf.

Coastal aqua culture or shrimp culture is getting popularity day by day as it provides more

benefit to the farmer.

Saline environment is necessary for coastal aqua culture. For this reason farmers are using a

huge amount of crude salt in their fields which in reply playing significant role in the sea

water intrusion problem. This is highly hazardous for the environment and causes great

damage to the fertility of the soil.

Besides coastal aqua culture a significant amount of people are involved in salt cultivation in

the area.

The amount of cultivable agricultural land is becoming smaller day by day at an alarming

rate. More and more of them are getting involved in coastal aqua culture or urbanization.

The rate of urbanization is relatively slow here though many people are developing their

socio-economic conditions by shrimp and high yield fish culture

Rate of literacy is extremely low in this area. Statistics show that rate of literacy for male is

39.7% while it is only 21% for females.

The pattern of using hygienic latrine in the common people is extremely poor. People of this

area have no interest in constructing hygienic sanitary latrine as it involves in some extra

expenditures. In reply they prefer to use open latrine or no latrine at all.

Farmers of this region use a huge amount of chemical fertilizers and pesticides. By the

washout of the residue of these hazardous chemical substances, water quality of the

surrounding area is highly spoiled. As a result, local water bodies are becoming fishless.

Once there were plenty of fishes in the water body of the area but the amount of fish is

decreasing due to over-exploitation

Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest that contains a huge amount of biodiversity. But

due to over exploitation and killing of local species is becoming a great threat in the way of

existence of many endangered species. Proper care is necessary to be undertaken to avoid

such unexpected extinction of valuable biodiversity.

Many people are dependent on Sundarbans for their livelihood. For their own betterment,

they should use forest resources sustainably.

Arsenic is a great problem in the surrounding area. Groundwater of this area is greatly

contaminated with arsenic. Use of water containing arsenic above a typical value for an

extended period may result in serious health hazard.

Sundarbans is famous for its appeal in tourism and every year a huge number of tourists

come to visit here. But transportation system is not that much good. By developing our

transportation system, we can encourage more and more tourists and thus we can earn

more and more money.

Plantation of economically beneficial plants is causing a great harm to the natural vegetation

and natural species.

REFERENCE

PUBLICATIONS: -

Erach Bharucha, Textbook of Environmental Studies, Universities Press-India.

Md. Golam Mahabub Sarwar, Impacts of Sea Level Rise on the Coastal Zone of Bangladesh,

Lund University

Agrawala, S., Ota, T., Ahmed, A.U., Smoth, J., Aalst, M.V., 2003. Development and Climate

Change in Bangladesh: Focus on Coastal Flooding and the Sundarbans, Organisation for

Economic Co-operation and Development (OECD), Paris

Alam, M., 2003. Bangladesh Country Case Study, National Adaptation Programme of Action

(NAPA) Workshop, 9-11 September 2003, Bhutan.

Ali, A.M.S., 2005. Rice to shrimp: Land use/ land cover changes and soil degradation in

Southwestern Bangladesh, Land Use Policy [Inpress]

Brammer, H., Asaduzzaman M. & Sultana, P., 1993. Effects of Climate and Sea-level Changes

on the Natural Resources of Bangladesh. Briefing Ducument No. 3, Bangladesh Unnayan

Parishad (BUP), Dhaka.

Chowdhury, A., 1998. Disasters: Issues and Responses, In: Gain, P. (Ed.), Bangladesh

Environment: Facing 21st Century, SEHD, Dhaka, Bangladesh.

Rabbiosi, L., 2003. Bangladesh enlarges Sundarbans Ramsar site, Ramsar Convention

Secretariat, Gland, Switzerland, Retrieved on 10 Sept. 2005 from

http://www.ramsar.org/wn/w.n.bangladesh_sundarbans.htm

Chowdhury K. Rezaul et al., Southeast Coastal Belt Study, COAST Trust, 1999.

Integrated Coastal Zone Management of the Government of Bangladesh; Report on Coastal

Livelihoods June 2003

Kausher A, Kay RC, Asaduzzaman M. and Paul S. Climate change and sea-level rise: the case

of the Bangladesh coast. In The implications of climate change and sea-level change for

Bangladesh (eds. R.A. Warrick and Q.K. Ahmed), Kluwer Academic, Dordrecht, 1996, (335-

396 pp.).

IUCN (1994). Mangroves of the Sundarbans. Volume 2: Bangladesh. The IUCN Wetlands

Programme. IUCN, Gland, Switzerland. Etc.

WEB RESOURCES: -

http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/sundarbans

http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/satkhira

http://www.en.wikipedia.org/wiki/shyamnagar_upazila

http://www.bdix.net/sdnbd_org/world_env_day/2004/bangladesh/climate_change_sealeve

l.htm

http://www.m-h-s.org/stiftung/upload/download/pdf/zockler_1.Pdf

http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Cyclone_Aila

http://www.banglapedia.net/HT/S_0602.HTM

http://www.sundarbantigerproject.info/viewpage.php?page_id=3

http://www.worldwildlife.org/wildworld/profiles/terrestrial/im/im1406_full.html

Questionnaire Survey

On

STUDY ON GEO-ENVIRONMENTAL & BIOLOGICAL COMPONENTS OF SATKHIRA REGION

Study area: - …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Name of respondent: - …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Sex of respondent: - Male / Female

Age of respondent: - …………………… years

Occupation: - Agriculture / Business / Teacher / ......…………………………..………………….

Occupation of majority: - Agriculture / Business / Teacher /……………………………………………………..

Availability of water: - All the year round/ in particular season…………………………………………….

Source of water: - Ground-water/ Pond/ River/ Stream………………………………………………..

Arsenic Problem: - Yes / No

Water pollution source: - Nearby industry/ Agricultural/ Household pollutants/……………………….

Major Crops: - Rice / Jute / Corn / Bean / Sugarcane / …………………………………………..

Annual crop productions: - ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Agricultural system: - Traditional method/ Modern technological method

Natural Hazards: - Flood / Tornado / Storm / Drought / Earthquake / Thunderstorm

…………………………………………………………………………………………………………

………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Frequency of hazards: - ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Magnitude and loss: - ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Shelter Center: - Yes / No

Relief availability: - Yes / No

Distribution of Relief: - Local administration / Government reliefs / Non-government

Temperature: - 1.During summer……………………………………………………………………………..

2. During winter………………………………………………………………………………..

Rainfall: - High / Low / Moderate

Soil type: - …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

Natural resources: - 1.Renewable…………………………………………………………………………………….

2. Non Renewable…………………………………………………………………………….

Archaeological site: - …………………………………………………………………………………………………………

House type: - ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Common health problem: - ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Common Plants: - …………….……………………………………………………………………………………………

Common animals: - ………………………………………………………………………………………………………..

Common Social problems: - ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….

Local Perception for solution ………………………………………………………………………………………………………….