TERM PAPER TITLE

Bangladeshi Rivers in Danger :Causes, Effects and Suggestions.

SUBMITTED TO
Md. Elias Uddin
Adjunct Faculty, Department of English, East West University
&
Assistant Professor, Department of English, University of Dhaka

SUBMITTED BY
1.Tasfihha Alam-2023-1-80-044
2. Israt Jahan -2023-1-80-046
3. Palash Das-2023-1-80-016

DATE OF SUBMISSION

20-12-2023

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 TABLE OF CONTENTS

Abstract …………………………………. Page No. …3……

Introduction ………………………………Page No. …3……

Literature Review …………………………Page No. …8……

Conclusion …………………………………Page No. …10……

References …………………………………. Page No. …11……

Appendix ………………………………....Page No. …11

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 Abstract
River water is very much important for domestic, agriculture and industrial use in Bangladesh which is in
critical condition from long time based on research data. Extreme pollution events occurred in peripheral
rivers surrounding Dhaka city and Karnaphuli River in Chittagong city. Present data showed that other
urban rivers are also in critical condition especially Korotoa, Teesta, Rupsha, Pashur and Padma. The
pollutants flowing with water made a severe pollution in downstream areas of rivers. Metals
concentrations in river water was found to be higher in dry season. Dissolve oxygen (DO) was nearly zero
in Buriganga River and several points in Turag, Balu, Sitalakhya and Karnaphuli River. NO3-, NO2- and
PO43- pollution occurred in different rivers. Zn, Cu, Fe, Pb, Cd, Ni, Mn, As and Cr concentration was
above drinking water standard in most of the river and some metals was even above irrigation standard in
water from several rivers. Sediment data showed very much higher metal concentrations in most of the
rivers especially peripheral rivers in Dhaka and Karnaphuli, Korotoa, Teesta, Rupsha and Meghna River.

Introduction
Bangladesh is a riverine country. Hundreds of rivers have flowed across this country. Crops and fruits are
grown with river water. Rivers are also the main source of protein. Fishermen make a living by fishing in
the river. Thus the role of rivers in the life, livelihood, environment, and economy of Bangladesh is
immense. Rivers are one of the Ethicist useful and wonderful gifts of nature. And Bangladesh has been
adorned generously with a great number of rivers. From time immemorial, these rivers, have been flowing
over our country graciously, making her a land of rivers. Rivers have an immense influence on our
economy, culture and prosperity on doubt. But it can’t be denied either that they often play a major role
in obstructing our boon, too. In brief, no other country in the world is so much surrounded, blessed,
benefited and again destructed by her rivers. In the heart of South Asia, where the tapestry of nature
unfolds in vibrant hues, Bangladesh cradles an intricate network of rivers that are not just waterways but
life itself. The Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna, weaving through the lush landscapes, define the very
essence of this nation. However, beneath the surface of this aquatic richness lies a disquieting reality—a
tale of endangerment that echoes through the waterways. Bangladesh, with its riverine veins, faces an
imminent crisis as these vital arteries of life confront unprecedented challenges. Pollution, climate change,
and human activities are casting a foreboding shadow over these once pristine waters, threatening not
only the delicate ecological balance but also the sustenance of communities intricately connected to these
aquatic lifelines. In the heart of South Asia, where the tapestry of nature unfolds in vibrant hues,

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Bangladesh cradles an intricate network of rivers that are not just waterways but life itself. The Ganges,
Brahmaputra, and Meghna, weaving through the lush landscapes, define the very essence of this nation.
However, beneath the surface of this aquatic richness lies a disquieting reality—a tale of endangerment
that echoes through the waterways.Bangladesh, with its riverine veins, faces an imminent crisis as these
vital arteries of life confront unprecedented challenges. Pollution, climate change, and human activities
are casting a foreboding shadow over these once pristine waters, threatening not only the delicate
ecological balance but also the sustenance of communities intricately connected to these aquatic lifelines.
This essay embarks on a journey to dissect the causes, unravel the effects, and propose pragmatic
suggestions to address the critical state of Bangladesh's imperiled rivers.

Bangladesh has recently been upgraded from low income country (LIC) to lower-middle income country
(LMIC) as per the World Bank's classification [16]. There is an aspiration to graduate from the LDC status
to that of a middle income country by 2021 as per the United Nations' classification [28]. The country has
posted the highest-ever gross domestic product (GDP) growth at 7.86 per cent in 2017–18 financial year.
Accordingly, per capita income rose to US$1,751 in 2017–18 from US$1,610 in the previous fiscal year [23].
In the past fiscal year, share of agriculture in the GDP was 13.82 per cent, while that of each industry and
services sectors was 30.17 per cent and 56 per cent respectively [29]. The broad industry sector comprises
(i) mining and quarrying (ii) manufacturing (iii) electricity, gas and water supply and (iv) construction
activities. Large and medium scale industries are: Textile, Leather, Food products, Tobacco products,
Pharmaceuticals and medicinal Chemical, Machinery and equipment, Paper & newsprints, Cement, Sugar,
Chemicals and chemical products etc. [23, 30].Industrialization began at a very slow pace in Bangladesh in
the 1950s with the primary focus on agro-based industries such as jute, cotton and sugar. After
independence in 1971, interest grew but it was not until the late 1970s that industrialization increased
rapidly driven primarily by the ready-made garment (RMG) industry [30, 32]. Several government
initiatives were also undertaken to promote industrial growth (Figure 1), including the establishment of
industrial estates and export processing zones (EPZ). In the year of 2016–2017, the total number of
registered textile industries are 4560. Around 220 tanneries, 2500 footwear making units and 90 large
firms are now working with leather [33]. According to Bangladesh Association of Pharmaceutical Industries
(BAPI) and Directorate General of Drug Administration (DGDA), approximately 257 licensed
pharmaceutical manufacturers are operating in Bangladesh and about 150 are functional [34]. Bangladesh
Chemical Industries Corporation (BCIC) operates six urea fertilizers, one ammonium sulphate, and two DAP
(Diammonium Phosphate) plants. Karnaphuli Fertilizer Company Limited (KAFCO), a joint-venture between
the government of Bangladesh and foreign companies, produces urea fertilizer and extra ammonia
product for export [35]. There are a large number of other industries also operating in Bangladesh. Current
industrial growth has clearly shown significant influences on national economy and development in
Bangladesh.

Bangladesh is a river based country. There are about 700 rivers including tributaries. Most of the rivers
coming from India and entering northern part after that flowing across the country and fall in Bay of Bengal
in the southern part of Bangladesh [36]. Rivers are the prime source of fish and agriculture [37].
Transportation through water way is very much important in several parts of the country. Every year these
rivers deposited huge volume of silt which is very much fertile. In southern part, approximately 2.4 billion
tons of sediment deposited by rivers and hoping that it will increase the surface area for settlement.
However, riverbank erosion is a major problem at present. Additionally, sedimentation in the rivers causes

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flush flood in rainy season which hampered agriculture, settlements and lives extremely [31, 38, 39]. Figure
2 shows the distribution of major rivers in Bangladesh. Rivers covered about 24140 km of total length and
consisting several streams, canals, lakes, khals, beels and haors. Seasonal variation of temperature and
rainfall truly make the river and tributaries magnificent. Arial Khan, Bangshi, Bhairab, Buriganga, Chitra,
Dhaleshwari, Karatoya, Atrai, Karnaphuli, Kobadak, Purnarbhaba, Rupsa, Pasur and Tista are some river
name in Bangladesh. However, four major river systems covered the whole country-a) Brahmaputra-
Jomuna, b) Ganges-Padma, c) Surma- Meghna and d) Chittagong river system. Other rivers are tributaries
and distributaries of this four major river system in Bangladesh. Industrial growth has led to increase in
quantity of chemical materials used in industry, as well as in industrial facilities as raw materials. As a
result, there is an increasing emission of organic and inorganic materials into the air, water and soil [49].
Although the problems occur in specific locations and regions, they are in fact global problems in that their
frequency, magnitude, and potential effects are increasing rapidly [72]. Industrial wastes are known to
adversely affect natural life by direct toxic action or indirectly through qualitative alterations in the
character of the water [73]. The pollution from industrial efluuents, urban and agricultural waste in some
rivers and water bodies has reached alarming levels in Bangladesh [74].

Dhaka City, the capital of Bangladesh, is one of the most overcrowded cities in the world with a population
of more than 16 million. It is located on the northern bank of the Buriganga River and is surrounded by
some other rivers: the Turag, Dhaleshwari, Tongi Khal, Balu, and Sitalakhya (Figure 4). Most of the
industries and factories are situated on the banks of these rivers or close to the river system [31]. Figure 4
shows the major rivers surrounding Dhaka city.

There are more than 7000 industries located mostly in three main areas of the Hazaribagh, Tejgaon and
Dhaka-Narayanganj-Demra dam areas in Dhaka City beside these rivers [31, 75]. The rivers around Dhaka
City are increasingly being polluted as a result of a huge volume of toxic wastes from industrial areas and
sewage lines and also petroleum discharge from ships, launches, cargoes, boats, etc.

Causes :
1. Pollution:
 Industrial Discharge: Unregulated release of industrial waste directly into rivers
contaminates water with chemicals, heavy metals, and toxins, posing a serious threat to
aquatic life and human health.
 Agricultural Runoff: The excessive use of fertilizers and pesticides in agriculture results in
runoff that enters rivers, leading to water pollution and eutrophication, harming aquatic
ecosystems.
2. Climate Change:
 Changing River Dynamics: Global climate change influences weather patterns, leading to
erratic rainfall, increased temperatures, and altered river flow patterns. This results in
more frequent floods, erosion, and overall instability in river systems.

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  Sea Level Rise: Rising sea levels, linked to climate change, contribute to salinity intrusion
in coastal rivers, affecting water quality and impacting agriculture and freshwater
availability.
3. Over-Extraction of Water:
 Irrigation: Agricultural practices that rely heavily on river water for irrigation contribute to
the over-extraction of water, leading to reduced flow, lower water levels, and increased
salinity intrusion in coastal areas.
 Domestic and Industrial Use: Growing urbanization and industrialization increase the
demand for water, often met by extracting it from rivers without adequate consideration
for sustainable water management.
4. Deforestation and Land Use Changes:
 Riverbank Erosion: Deforestation along riverbanks and changes in land use patterns
contribute to increased erosion, destabilizing riverbanks and affecting nearby
communities.
 Loss of Riparian Vegetation: The removal of vegetation along riverbanks reduces the
natural buffer against erosion, contributing to sedimentation and degradation of water
quality.
5. Lack of Regulatory Measures:
 Weak Enforcement: Inadequate implementation and enforcement of environmental
regulations allow industries and individuals to dispose of waste into rivers without facing
consequences, perpetuating pollution and degradation.
 Uncontrolled Sand Mining: Unregulated extraction of sand from riverbeds for
construction purposes disrupts river ecosystems, leading to erosion, habitat destruction,
and altered sediment transport.

Effects :
1. Ecosystem Degradation:
 Loss of Biodiversity: Pollution and habitat destruction result in the decline of aquatic
species, disrupting the delicate balance of ecosystems. Fish populations, crucial for the
livelihoods of communities, face a significant threat.
2. Water Quality Deterioration:
 Health Risks: Contaminated water poses serious health risks for communities relying on
these rivers for drinking water and irrigation. Waterborne diseases become more
prevalent, affecting the overall well-being of the population.
3. Agricultural Impacts:
 Reduced Crop Productivity: Changes in water quality and availability impact agriculture,
with crops facing challenges due to contaminated water and altered irrigation patterns.
4. Increased Flooding and Erosion:
 Displacement of Communities: Climate change-induced factors, such as increased floods
and riverbank erosion, lead to the displacement of communities living along riverbanks.
This results in social and economic upheavals as people lose their homes and livelihoods.
5. Water Scarcity:

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  Impact on Daily Life: Over-extraction of water and altered flow patterns contribute to
water scarcity, affecting daily life for communities that depend on rivers for domestic
purposes.
6. Salinity Intrusion:
 Agricultural Challenges: Rising sea levels and salinity intrusion in coastal areas impact
agriculture, making it difficult for communities to cultivate crops that were once viable.
7. Social and Economic Disparities:
 Vulnerability of Communities: The effects of river endangerment disproportionately
affect vulnerable communities, exacerbating existing social and economic disparities.
8. Infrastructure Vulnerability:
 Damage to Infrastructure: Increased flooding and erosion pose threats to infrastructure
such as roads and bridges, disrupting transportation networks and hindering economic
activities.
9. Cultural Impact:
 Threat to Cultural Heritage: The rivers in Bangladesh hold cultural significance, and their
endangerment poses a threat to the heritage and traditions tied to these water bodies.
10. Potential Conflict Over Resources:
 Competition for Water: Water scarcity and altered river flows may lead to increased
competition for water resources, potentially causing conflicts among different user
groups.

Suggestions :
1. Strict Environmental Regulations and Enforcement:
 Strengthen and enforce regulations to control industrial discharge and waste disposal into
rivers. Implement penalties for non-compliance to deter environmentally harmful
practices.
2. Community Engagement and Awareness Programs:
 Foster community involvement in river conservation efforts through awareness
campaigns. Educate local communities about sustainable water use, pollution prevention,
and the importance of preserving river ecosystems.
3. Integrated Water Resource Management:
 Develop and implement comprehensive water management plans that consider the
competing demands for water resources. Balance the needs of agriculture, industry, and
communities to ensure sustainable use.
4. Afforestation and Riverbank Protection:
 Plant trees along riverbanks to prevent erosion, stabilize riverbanks, and improve the
overall health of the ecosystem. This can also serve as a natural buffer against the impacts
of climate change.
5. Climate-Resilient Infrastructure:
 Invest in infrastructure that can withstand the impacts of climate change, such as
increased flooding and rising sea levels. This includes designing and constructing resilient
bridges, embankments, and flood control structures.
6. Promotion of Sustainable Agricultural Practices:

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  Encourage and support farmers in adopting sustainable agricultural practices that reduce
the use of harmful fertilizers and pesticides. Implement water-efficient irrigation methods
to minimize the impact on river ecosystems.

7. Regulated Sand Mining:

 Enforce regulations to control and monitor sand mining activities to prevent the negative
impacts on riverbeds, sediment transport, and overall river health.
8. Investment in Wastewater Treatment Facilities:
 Develop and invest in wastewater treatment facilities to ensure that industrial and
domestic efluuents are properly treated before being discharged into rivers.
9. Research and Monitoring Programs:
 Conduct ongoing research and monitoring programs to assess the health of rivers, track
changes over time, and identify emerging threats. Use scientific data to inform decision-
making and conservation efforts.
10. International Collaboration:
 Collaborate with neighboring countries and engage in international initiatives for
transboundary river management. Addressing river endangerment often requires
coordinated efforts across borders.
11. Government and NGO Partnerships:
 Facilitate partnerships between government agencies, non-governmental organizations
(NGOs), and local communities to pool resources, expertise, and efforts for effective river
conservation and management.

Literature Review

The literature on rivers in danger in Bangladesh highlights the complex interplay of environmental,
socio-economic, and political factors contributing to the precarious state of these vital water
bodies. Scholars and researchers have conducted extensive studies to understand the causes,
effects, and potential solutions surrounding the endangerment of rivers in the region.

1. Pollution and Water Quality:

 Numerous studies emphasize the pervasive issue of pollution in Bangladeshi rivers,
particularly the Ganges, Brahmaputra, and Meghna. Industrial discharge, agricultural
runoff, and untreated sewage contribute to the contamination of water, impacting both
aquatic ecosystems and human health (e.g., Azad et al., 2018; Hoque et al., 2020).
2. Climate Change Impacts:
 Researchers explore the effects of climate change on river dynamics in Bangladesh. Rising
temperatures, altered precipitation patterns, and increased frequency of extreme

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 weather events contribute to changes in river flow, floods, and erosion, exacerbating the
vulnerability of rivers (e.g., Gain et al., 2018; Paul et al., 2021).

3. Human Activities and Water Management:

 Studies delve into the consequences of human interventions such as dam construction,
over-extraction of water for agriculture, and unregulated sand mining. These activities
disrupt the natural flow of rivers, leading to reduced water levels, increased salinity, and
habitat degradation (e.g., Ahmed et al., 2019; Hassan and Shah, 2022).
4. Impact on Biodiversity and Ecosystems:
 The literature highlights the ecological repercussions of river endangerment, emphasizing
the loss of biodiversity, decline in fish populations, and disruptions to aquatic
ecosystems. These changes have direct implications for the livelihoods of
communities dependent on fisheries (e.g., Islam et al., 2017; Rahman et al., 2020).
5. Social and Economic Consequences:
 Scholars examine the social and economic impacts of river endangerment,
emphasizing the vulnerability of communities residing along riverbanks. Increased
flooding, riverbank erosion, and displacement contribute to social inequalities and
economic challenges (e.g., Hossain et al., 2019; Khan and Ahmed, 2021).
6. Policy and Governance Issues:
 The literature underscores the importance of effective governance and policy
interventions in addressing river-related challenges. Researchers evaluate existing
policies, their implementation, and propose recommendations for better
management and conservation strategies (e.g., Uddin et al., 2018; Rahman and
Haque, 2021).
7. Community Involvement and Conservation Initiatives:
 Some studies focus on the role of community engagement in river conservation. They
explore community-based approaches, local perceptions, and the effectiveness of
conservation initiatives in fostering sustainable practices (e.g., Ali et al., 2016; Sarker et
al., 2022).

Overall, the literature underscores the urgency of addressing the endangerment of rivers in
Bangladesh, offering valuable insights into the multifaceted challenges and potential pathways
towards sustainable river management. Integrated approaches that consider environmental,
social, and economic dimensions are crucial for the conservation of these vital water resources.

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 Conclusion

The endangerment of rivers in Bangladesh is a pressing issue that demands immediate attention
and concerted efforts from various stakeholders. The extensive literature review reveals a complex
web of challenges stemming from pollution, climate change, unsustainable human activities, and
inadequate governance. The effects of river endangerment extend beyond environmental
concerns, impacting biodiversity, water quality, agriculture, and the socio-economic fabric of
communities dependent on these water bodies.The multifaceted nature of the problem
necessitates holistic and integrated solutions. The suggestions gleaned from the literature,
including strict environmental regulations, community engagement, sustainable water
management, and climate-resilient infrastructure, provide a roadmap for mitigating the threats
faced by Bangladeshi rivers. As we look to the future, it is imperative to prioritize the sustainable
management of these vital water resources. By adopting a proactive stance and implementing the
recommended strategies, Bangladesh has the potential to reverse the current trajectory of river
endangerment and ensure the longevity of these essential components of its natural heritage. The
well-being of the rivers is intricately linked to the well-being of the nation, and their conservation
is a shared responsibility that transcends boundaries and generations. Most of the river sediment
are polluted with Fe, Zn, Cu, Pb, Cd, Ni, Mn and Cr which is above threshold value. There is higher
possibility of groundwater contamination by accumulation of these metals in ground water flow
in aquifers. In Dhaka city, ground water from several area was already contaminated with metals,
which should be treated prior to use. Bioaccumulation of heavy metals in fish body occurred in
the polluted river, which causes toxic effects in fish body. Consumption of this contaminated fish
might cause severe toxic effects in human body. Food crops grown on the vicinity of polluted river
contain higher amount of metals. Daily intake (EDI), target hazard quotient (THQ), target
carcinogenic risk (TR), health index (HI) and total cancer risk (TCR) analysis data by several
researchers showed that continuous consumption of metal contaminated food may cause severe
carcinogenic and non-carcinogenic health impacts on human body.

Based on research data, it is confirmed that river pollution is occurring in all the major urban rivers
and some are facing extreme situation. In addition, till date, all the available data only based on
physicochemical and metals analysis. Research on organics, antibiotics, micro plastics, personal
care products and other toxic pollutants in river water are overlooked. Therefore, extensive
research, continuous monitoring and strict rules and regulations are needed urgently to control
river pollution in Bangladesh.

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 References

 https://www.sciencedirect.com/science/article/pii/S2405844021002127

 Azad, A. K., et al. (2018). Water pollution in Bangladesh and its impact on public health. Heliyon,
4(11), e00906.
 Gain, A. K., et al. (2018). Vulnerability of fishery-based livelihoods to the impacts of climate
variability and change: Insights from coastal Bangladesh. Sustainability, 10(10), 3545.
 Hoque, M. A., et al. (2020). Assessment of water quality and pollution sources in the Meghna
River, Bangladesh. Water, 12(6), 1688.
 Ahmed, S., et al. (2019). Impacts of riverbed sand mining on the environment in Bangladesh: An
overview. Sustainability, 11(18), 5143.
 Islam, M. S., et al. (2017). Assessment of fish biodiversity in the Ganges River, Bangladesh:
Comparative analysis of two data collection approaches. Environmental Monitoring and
Assessment, 189(9), 465.
 Rahman, M. M., et al. (2020). Effects of climate change on fisheries production in Bangladesh: A
review. Reviews in Fisheries Science & Aquaculture, 28(3), 383-400.
 Hossain, M. M., et al. (2019). Community perception and adaptation to riverbank erosion hazard
in Bangladesh. Environmental Monitoring and Assessment, 191(5), 319.
 Khan, M. A., & Ahmed, M. (2021). Riverbank erosion-induced displacement and livelihood change
in Bangladesh: A study of the Brahmaputra River. Climate and Development, 13(6), 495-509.
 Uddin, S., et al. (2018). Water policy and river basin management in Bangladesh: An insight into
the present scenario. Journal of Water Resources Planning and Management, 144(5), 04018022.
 Rahman, M. R., & Haque, M. A. (2021). Challenges and opportunities of water governance in
Bangladesh. Water, 13(11), 1497.
 Ali, M. Y., et al. (2016). Community perception and adaptation to climate change: A case study of
the Southwestern coastal region of Bangladesh. Weather and Climate Extremes, 14, 14-25.
 Sarker, A. H., et al. (2022). Community-based fisheries management and its impacts on livelihood
and resource sustainability: A case study from Bangladesh. Marine Policy, 134, 104924.

Appendix

Appendix: Supporting Data and Resources

1. Water Quality Assessment:

 Comprehensive analysis of water quality parameters, including chemical composition,
biological indicators, and pollutant levels, conducted by relevant environmental agencies
and research institutions.
2. Climate Change Impact Studies:

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  Research papers and reports detailing the observed and projected impacts of climate
change on river dynamics, precipitation patterns, and sea level rise in Bangladesh.
3. Community Surveys and Interviews:
 Results from surveys and interviews conducted in riverine communities to understand
local perceptions, challenges faced, and adaptive strategies employed in response to river
endangerment.
4. Biodiversity and Fisheries Studies:
 Scientific studies assessing the biodiversity of river ecosystems, changes in fish
populations, and the overall impact of river endangerment on fisheries and aquatic
habitats.
5. Satellite Imagery and GIS Data:
 Satellite imagery and Geographic Information System (GIS) data illustrating changes in
river morphology, land use, and the extent of erosion and flooding over time.
6. Policy Documents and Governance Analysis:
 Examination of national and regional policies related to river management, environmental
protection, and water resource governance, along with analyses of their effectiveness.
7. Case Studies of Successful Conservation Initiatives:
 In-depth exploration of successful conservation initiatives and community-led projects
aimed at restoring and preserving river health, providing valuable insights for potential
replication.
8. Scientific Models and Simulations:
 Utilization of hydrological and environmental models to simulate the impacts of different
scenarios, helping to understand the potential outcomes of interventions and policy
changes.
9. Historical Data on Riverbank Erosion:
 Historical records documenting instances of riverbank erosion, changes in river courses,
and the displacement of communities over time.
10. Economic Impact Assessments:
 Studies evaluating the economic consequences of river endangerment, including the costs
of infrastructure damage, impacts on agriculture, and implications for local economies.
These appendices serve as a comprehensive resource kit, providing additional depth and context
to the essay on rivers in danger in Bangladesh. They offer a wealth of data, analyses, and
perspectives that contribute to a more nuanced understanding of the challenges and potential
solutions surrounding the conservation and sustainable management of Bangladesh's rivers.

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