“Stop river erosion, save the people of Konakhali”—with this slogan echoing along the banks of the Matamuhuri River, hundreds of residents from all walks of life formed a human chain on Friday (April 18) at the Moronghona Point in Chakaria’s Konakhali union of Cox’s Bazar.
The demonstrators demanded immediate construction of a sustainable embankment to prevent recurring river erosion, which destroys homes and livelihoods annually.
Locals say that the swelling Matamuhuri River continues to engulf entire neighborhoods without a permanent embankment. In Konakhali’s Moronghona area alone, countless families have already been displaced and rendered destitute.
Organized by the local civic group Moronghona Unnayan Forum, the human chain saw participation from community members, activists, and political figures. They voiced a collective plea: “We don’t want relief; we want a lasting solution.”
Speakers emphasized that more than 40,000 people in the union are at constant risk due to the fragile riverbanks. Among the speakers was Dr. Md. Nurul Kabir, managing director of Chakaria Chevron and convener of the local BNP unit, along with other notable community leaders.
Residents called upon the government to take swift and effective action to build a permanent embankment and secure the future of Konakhali’s vulnerable population.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report/Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Courtesy
