Even light rainfall has once again caused severe waterlogging at Chaliyatali Bazar, the main gateway to Maheshkhali, disrupting traffic and creating hardships for commuters, students, and local businesses.
The flooding, triggered by runoff from nearby hills, submerged sections of the main road and surrounding shops on Monday afternoon. Residents say the problem has persisted due to inadequate drainage despite road development projects carried out in recent years.
Local business owners, including Abul Kasem Saudagar, Tarek Mohammad Raihan, and Nurul Kabir, said waterlogging frequently damages businesses, disrupts transportation, and increases the risk of accidents for vehicles, including buses, CNG auto-rickshaws, private cars, and goods carriers.
The affected route is a key transport corridor connecting Maheshkhali with neighboring Chakaria via Badarkhali, serving thousands of commuters every day. Students from Uttar Nalbila High School, Chaliyatali Government Primary School, and Chaliyatali Noorani Madrasa were also forced to wade through knee-deep water to reach their educational institutions.
Residents and educators have urged the authorities to construct proper drainage channels, noting that sufficient government-owned land is available to implement a long-term solution. Many locals have also taken to social media to draw attention to the recurring problem.
As Maheshkhali hosts several major government development projects and attracts domestic and foreign visitors, residents warned that the persistent waterlogging is tarnishing the image of the island.
Maheshkhali Upazila Nirbahi Officer Imran Mahmud Dalim said the matter has been taken into consideration and that the relevant authorities will be informed to ensure prompt measures to reduce public suffering.
