More than 100 cattle were swept away by a sudden tidal surge in a canal at Gazaria upazila on Friday afternoon, resulting in estimated financial losses exceeding Tk 1.25 crore.
The incident occurred in a canal near Bhati Balaki village of the upazila around 4 PM as the animals were returning from grazing on nearby char land.
Locals said that it was a routine practice for the cattle, raised by farming families, to cross the canal daily for grazing.
So far, 36 cattle carcasses have been recovered, while approximately 65 remain missing.
“This is a tragedy for our community,” said Shyamal Khan, a local resident. “Most families here depend on agriculture and livestock. The cattle were returning from the char land when they were caught in the surge. We are devastated.”
Mohasin, a farmer who lost four cattle, described the incident as a personal disaster. “This was my only source of income. I’ve lost everything,” he said.
Abu Taleb Sujan Khan, another affected farmer, echoed the same grief. “Every day, our cattle cross the canal for grazing. We never expected anything like this. Nearly 100 animals were lost in a matter of minutes. Many farmers are still searching the area in hopes of finding their missing livestock.”
Hossendi Union Parishad Chairman Monirul Haque Mithu stated that local officials have been instructed to investigate the matter thoroughly.
Md. Foysal Arafat Bin Siddique, Agriculture Officer of Gazaria Upazila, said, “We are deeply saddened by the loss and are committed to supporting the affected farmers in every way we can.”
Gazaria Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Md. Ashraful Alam confirmed the recovery of 36 carcasses and said that damage assessment efforts are ongoing.
“The loss is significant. The administration will extend all possible assistance to the affected farmers,” he added.
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