|| Md. Mijanur Rahman Akanda, Phulpur (Mymensingh) Correspondent: The once fast-flowing Kharia River that runs through Phulpur upazila of Mymensingh has now turned into green paddy fields. According to reports, the Kharia River, a distributary of the Brahmaputra in Mymensingh, flows through Rambhadrapur, Bhaikandi, Payari, Rupsi, and Phulpur unions—covering nearly 40 kilometers—before merging with the Kangsha River. The river once played a huge role in expanding trade and commerce in the eastern region. Markets such as Rambhadrapur, Bahadurpur, Amuakanda, Chhonkanda, Rupsi, and Defulia Bazar in Phulpur grew up centered around this river. Even about two decades ago, people used this waterway for transportation and carrying goods. In particular, traders imported and exported rice, jute, wheat, jackfruit, and various other products to different parts of the country via this river route.However, locals allege that the flow of water in the river has drastically reduced after the Water Development Board unplannedly constructed a flood control embankment in Rambhadrapur Union of the upazila. As a result, the river has gradually silted up and turned into fields of green crops. Moreover, the construction of dams at various points along the river for fish farming has severely disrupted the water flow during the monsoon season. Due to a lack of proper oversight of the river, influential individuals have already started occupying parts of the river and constructing structures.Locals also allege that during the previous Awami League government, a so-called dredging of parts of the river was carried out for show, which turned into a festival of sand looting. Additionally, many claim that the clandestine sale of newly formed chars at various points along the river is now an open secret.Regarding the issue, Shahidul Islam Moulvi of Shyampur village said the river urgently needs to be dredged if it is to be saved. At the same time, illegal occupants must be evicted from the river. Azizul Islam of Ghomgaon village said the river would quickly regain navigability if it is dredged deeply. People living along the river would once again be able to earn a livelihood by fishing, as before. Rakibul Hasan Sohel, Joint Convener of Phulpur Municipal BNP, said urgent restoration is needed to bring back the Kharia’s former glory. Due to lack of maintenance, the river is now on the verge of extinction.