EXPLORE LOCAL WATERFRONT THROUGH SUSTAINABLE
URBAN WATERFRONT
SITE: The Pagla river, Binodpur union, Near khaserhat bazar, Chapainawabganj
TITLE: Explore local river through sustainable waterfront
AUTHOR: Fahim Islam
ID: 2507218
INSTITUTE : Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University, Dinajpur
COURSE: Basic Environmental Engineering
COURSE CODE: ARC-127
INSTRUCTOR : Kazi Asadullah Al Emran
DATE:
The Documentation and Analysis of Degraded Waterbodies in
Chapainawabganj (The Pagla River)
Introduction
Identification
The Pagla River in Chapainawabganj, situated in the northwestern region of Bangladesh, is a
relatively small yet historically and geographically significant watercourse. Functioning as a
tributary of the Mahananda River, it is also occasionally noted for its hydrological connection
with the Padma River during periods of monsoon overflow. According to various sources, the
river’s length ranges between 83 and 100 kilometers, reflecting variations in its recorded
measurements over time.
The Pagla River flows primarily through the Shibganj Upazila of Chapainawabganj District,
while parts of its network extend into West Bengal, India, and it has even been associated with a
historical course near Dhaka. Over the years, the river has undergone notable shifts in its course
and flow patterns, influenced by natural and anthropogenic factors. Additionally, the river is
often linked to the Paglajhora Falls, regarded as the origin point of the Mahananda River,
highlighting the Pagla’s interconnected role within the broader regional river system.
Historical Background and Importance
The Pagla River in Chapainawabganj has both historical and religious importance, especially for
the Hindu community, as it is the site of the traditional “Jahnumunir Dussehra Gangasnan” ritual
held on its banks. In earlier times, the area around the river was known as an important
commercial and strategic point, where the Ganges and Mahananda rivers were believed to meet,
although the Pagla is usually seen as a separate river from the main Ganges system. In modern
times, the river has also been important as a natural boundary and has been the focus of several
projects aimed at controlling erosion, particularly near its confluence with the Padma River.
Overall, the Pagla River continues to play a significant role in the cultural, historical, and
environmental context of the Chapainawabganj region.
Current State of Degradation
The Pagla River is currently facing several environmental challenges such as siltation, riverbank
erosion, water elution, and gradual drying up. Continuous silt deposition has reduced the river’s
depth and flow capacity, disrupting its natural course and affecting nearby agricultural lands.
Riverbank erosion has become increasingly severe, causing the loss of fertile soil and threatening
settlements along the banks. Water elution, caused by contamination and unregulated waste
discharge, has degraded water quality and reduced aquatic biodiversity. Additionally, the drying
up of the river during dry seasons has limited its use for irrigation, fishing, and daily community
activities. Together, these issues pose a serious threat to the ecological balance and socio-
economic stability of the region, emphasizing the urgent need for sustainable river management
and conservation efforts.
Data Collection and Documentation
Basic information
Name: The pagla River
Location:Chapainawabganj district, entering near the Shibganj Upazila.
The Pagla River enters specifically through the Nawabganj district of Bangladesh. Its origin is in
the Ganges River system in the southwest of Maldah District, West Bengal, India.
The diagram shows the the basic location and river edge of the river. Ref : google maps
System Type:
Perennial – The Pagla is a permanent river with year-round flow.
Origin:The Pagla Rivers root is in India in the district of malda Current condition
Current Physical State of the River:
The river's physical condition is showing clear signs of stress, primarily impacting its water
quality, sediment load, and physical boundaries:
Declining Water Quality
The water quality has gotten noticeably worse in recent years. The water often looks murky
(cloudy or dirty), and during the dry seasons, a foul odor can sometimes be detected.
Increased Siltation
The amount of siltation (mud and sediment buildup) is growing. This is especially true near
urban areas and the spots where water is discharged from agricultural fields (which carry soil and
other pollutants).
Bank Encroachment
There's clear encroachment along various parts of the river. This means that informal settlements
(unplanned homes or buildings) and other infrastructure have been built too close to the edge,
effectively narrowing the riverbanks and reducing the river's space.
Pollution:
1. Illegal Waste Disposal: Waste from local industries and households is being directly dumped
into the river, contaminating the water.
2. Plastic and Polythene Accumulation: Piles of plastic and polythene are accumulating along
the riverbanks, harming the environment.
3. Illegal Construction and Filling: Illegal constructions and riverbank filling are obstructing
the natural flow of the river.
Community Perceptions:
To understand the problems of the pagla river that causing the pollution and other ongoing
crucial problems two individuals were interviewed who are the inhabitents of the area and seen
the causes of the problems first hand.
Interview 1: Reflection on the Past
Interviewee 1: Abdul Karim, 68, resident of hadinogor, Chapainawabganj
> "In my childhood, the Pagla River was the pride of our village. Its water was clear, and we
used to bathe, fish, and even drink from it. Farmers relied on the river for irrigation, and the
yearly floods would bring fertile soil to the fields. Boats used to pass by carrying goods, and the
riverbanks were full of life and green vegetation. It was not only a source of water but also a part
of our culture and identity."
Interview 2: Reflection on the Present
Interviewee: Rahima Khatun, 45, resident of tappu, Chapainawabganj
> "Now the river is nothing like it used to be. The water has turned dark and smells bad because
of waste and garbage dumping. During the dry season, large portions of the riverbed remain dry,
and farming has become difficult. The fish are disappearing, and erosion has eaten away much of
the riverbank. People have started to build on the river's edge, narrowing its flow. It feels like we
are losing something that once gave us life."
Causes of Degradation
1. Industrial Waste Discharge : Factories and local industries release untreated chemical
effluents into the river, contaminating water quality.
2. Domestic Sewage : Untreated household wastewater is dumped directly into the river,
increasing organic pollution and bacteria levels.
3. Plastic and Solid Waste : Accumulation of plastics, polythene, and other non-biodegradable
waste along the riverbanks and in the water.
4. Illegal Construction and River Filling : Unauthorized buildings and landfilling obstruct the
river’s natural flow, causing siltation and reduced water movement.
5. Agricultural Runoff : Fertilizers, pesticides, and other chemicals from nearby farms enter the
river, leading to nutrient pollution and eutrophication.
6. Sand Mining and Excavation : Excessive sand extraction from the riverbed disrupts the river
ecosystem and destabilizes the banks.
7. Deforestation of Riverbanks : Removal of vegetation along the riverbank increases erosion,
sedimentation, and loss of habitat for aquatic life.
8. Overfishing and Aquatic Resource Exploitation : Unsustainable fishing practices reduce
fish populations and disturb the natural ecological balance.
Recommendations and Solutions:
Restoring the Pagla River in Chapai Nawabganj requires a coordinated approach involving both
government initiatives and community participation. Industrial pollution can be significantly
reduced by setting up affordable and efficient effluent treatment plants for factories, along with
regular monitoring and strict enforcement of environmental regulations. For domestic sewage,
the government can construct decentralized sewage treatment systems in towns and villages
along the river, while communities can be educated on proper wastewater disposal practices to
reduce contamination. Plastic and solid waste can be managed through a combination of
municipal waste collection programs, periodic river clean-up campaigns, and public awareness
initiatives to encourage recycling and reduce single-use plastics. Illegal construction and river
filling should be addressed by strict enforcement of river protection laws, demolition of
unauthorized structures, and clear demarcation of the river’s boundaries to prevent
encroachment.
Agricultural runoff can be minimized by promoting low-cost organic fertilizers, training farmers
in sustainable farming practices, and creating vegetated buffer zones along the riverbanks to
naturally filter chemicals before they enter the water. Sand mining should be regulated through
permits, monitoring, and community reporting mechanisms to prevent over-extraction and
preserve the riverbed ecosystem. Reforestation of riverbanks with fast-growing, native plant
species will help prevent erosion, stabilize the soil, and provide habitats for aquatic and
terrestrial wildlife. To protect fish populations, local communities can be encouraged to follow
sustainable fishing practices, such as seasonal restrictions, fishing quotas, and the use of non-
destructive fishing methods.
By combining government enforcement, infrastructure development, and active participation of
local residents, these measures can be implemented in a cost-effective and practical manner.
Over time, this collaborative approach will improve water quality, restore biodiversity, and
ensure that the Pagla River continues to provide ecological, economic, and cultural benefits to
the people of Chapai Nawabganj.
Restoring the pagla in 5 to 10 years :
1. Pollution Control
Industrial Waste: Install effluent treatment plants for nearby factories and enforce strict
regulations to prevent untreated discharge.
Domestic Waste: Build small-scale sewage treatment facilities and educate local residents on
proper disposal.
Plastic & Solid Waste: Organize regular river clean-ups and promote community-based recycling
programs.
2. Riverbank and Catchment Management
Reforestation: Plant native vegetation along the banks to prevent erosion and improve habitat.
Stop Illegal Constructions: Remove unauthorized structures and prevent further river
encroachment.
Buffer Zones: Create green belts along the river to filter agricultural runoff naturally.
3. Siltation and Sand Mining Control
Regulate sand mining and prevent excessive extraction to maintain natural river flow and depth.
Conduct dredging only where necessary to remove excessive silt while preserving the ecosystem.
4. Water Quality Improvement
Introduce aeration systems or small wetlands to naturally increase oxygen levels in stagnant
areas.
Monitor water quality regularly to identify pollution hotspots and act quickly.
5. Sustainable Resource Management
Promote sustainable fishing practices, including seasonal restrictions and quotas.
Educate communities on responsible water use and aquatic biodiversity conservation.
6. Community Engagement & Awareness
Involve local communities in river restoration projects.
Conduct awareness campaigns highlighting the importance of the river for livelihoods,
agriculture, and culture.
7. Government Policies & Enforcement
Enforce environmental laws strictly to prevent illegal dumping, construction, and pollution.
Allocate funds for river restoration projects and maintenance.
By implementing these steps collectively, the Pagla River can gradually regain its natural flow,
water quality, and ecological balance, benefiting both the environment and the local communities
dependent on it.
Funding and Financial Support:
Restoration of the Pagla River requires sustained and diversified funding. The government can
allocate a specific river restoration budget through local development projects. Partnerships with
NGOs, donor agencies, and international environmental organizations (such as UNDP or World
Bank initiatives) can provide technical and financial support. Local businesses that benefit from
the river—such as agriculture, fisheries, and tourism—can also contribute under a “River
Maintenance Fund.” Community members can participate through voluntary labor and small
contributions, ensuring that restoration remains both financially viable and locally owned.
Photographs:
Source : prothon alo
Source : The daily star
Summary
The Pagla River, located in Chapainawabganj District, holds significant ecological, socio-
economic, and cultural importance for the region. Historically, the river served as a vital source
of irrigation, fisheries, transportation, and domestic use, supporting the livelihoods of numerous
rural and urban communities along its course. Its gentle flow and fertile banks contributed to the
agricultural productivity and environmental balance of the area, forming an integral part of
Chapainawabganj’s natural and cultural heritage.
In recent years, however, the Pagla River has undergone considerable degradation due to
multiple anthropogenic and environmental factors. The primary causes include the discharge of
untreated domestic and industrial waste, agricultural runoff containing fertilizers and pesticides,
illegal encroachment on riverbanks, and unregulated sand mining. Deforestation and the absence
of effective river management have further accelerated erosion and sedimentation, leading to
reduced water depth, loss of aquatic biodiversity, and declining water quality. Seasonal
variations, coupled with a lack of coordinated maintenance and policy enforcement, have
exacerbated these challenges, resulting in the gradual deterioration of the river’s ecological
integrity.
Restoration of the Pagla River requires a comprehensive and multidisciplinary approach. Priority
measures should include dredging and desiltation, riverbank stabilization through reforestation,
pollution control via improved waste management, and the establishment of buffer zones to filter
runoff. In addition, community-based conservation initiatives, public awareness campaigns, and
the promotion of sustainable agricultural practices are essential for long-term success.
Governmental agencies must collaborate with local institutions and environmental organizations
to ensure proper monitoring, funding allocation, and enforcement of river protection policies.
Ultimately, the rehabilitation of the Pagla River is not only an environmental necessity but also a
socio-economic imperative. Reviving its ecological health will enhance local livelihoods,
strengthen regional resilience against climate impacts, and preserve the cultural identity deeply
connected to the river. Through integrated planning, institutional cooperation, and active
community participation, the Pagla River can be restored as a sustainable and resilient
waterbody, ensuring its continued contribution to the environmental and cultural landscape of
Chapainawabganj.
