Nageshwari Schools Submerged: Blocked Drainage Traps Over 500 Students

More than 500 students and teachers of Sapkhawa High School and the adjacent Barnamala Government Primary School in Raiganj Union, Nageshwari upazila, are suffering from severe waterlogging that has submerged school grounds and disrupted regular classes.

Continuous rainfall over several days has flooded nearby croplands and school premises. Water has entered the school yards and verandahs, making movement difficult and disrupting teaching activities. From nearby areas, the surroundings appear like a water body, with stagnant water where ducks and fish are seen.

Locals said the drainage system collapsed after a culvert near the schools broke a few months ago. It was later blocked, and subsequent land filling and construction activities further obstructed the natural flow of water, worsening the situation.

As a result, knee-deep stagnant water has remained around the schools for days. Attendance has dropped, and students are unable to participate in sports and outdoor activities. Teachers also report increased mosquito infestation and health risks, including fever, colds, coughs, and skin allergies.

Students said commuting to school has become difficult, with uniforms, books, and bags getting wet in slippery conditions.

Headmaster Abdul Gani said the absence of a functioning culvert and drainage system is the main cause and urged immediate action to restore a proper learning environment.

Assistant teacher Nur Islam Mandal said stagnant water has increased health risks and made teaching conditions difficult due to insects and foul smell.

Local residents also expressed concern that the school field, once used for Eid congregations, may not be usable for the upcoming Eid-ul-Azha prayers due to flooding.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer HM Khodadad Hossain said he has been informed about the situation, instructed the concerned union parishad chairman to take necessary steps, and assured administrative cooperation.