16 Quick Reaction Teams Ready to Tackle Chattogram Waterlogging

To reduce waterlogging during the upcoming monsoon, 16 Quick Reaction Teams will be deployed across Chittagong city. These teams will respond immediately to any waterlogging and ensure quick drainage.

Lt. Col. Mohsin of the 34th Engineer Brigade of the Bangladesh Army shared the update. The army is working on canal renovation under the Chittagong Development Authority (CDA).

He said the teams will remain on standby at all times. “If waterlogging occurs anywhere, they will quickly reach the site, clean canals and drains, and ensure water flows properly. They will also coordinate with civil administration when needed.”

He added that 29 excavators and sufficient manpower have been kept ready around the clock.

Referring to Tuesday’s waterlogging, Lt. Col. Mohsin said heavy Boishakh rains and temporary dams in the Hijra Canal project blocked water flow. This caused severe waterlogging in several areas, including Pravartak Mor.

“The army team began work at night. By 1:30 am, water levels had dropped. By 8 am, the dams were removed and the canal was restored,” he said, highlighting the teams’ rapid response.

On project progress, he said work began on 36 of the city’s 57 canals in the first phase. So far, 30 canals are complete. Five of the remaining six will be finished by May 15.

The Hijra Canal is now 62 percent complete, with the rest scheduled after the monsoon in November.

He expressed optimism that waterlogging will improve significantly this year. “Last year, 17 areas faced waterlogging for two to two and a half hours. This year, it should reduce to two or three areas, with water clearing within one to one and a half hours,” he said.

He added that once renovation of all 36 canals is complete, waterlogging in those areas should be eliminated.