Danger looms over Satkhira coastal areas as cyclone Yaas approaches

Cyclone Yaas may wreak havoc in the coastal areas of Satkhira as the embankments and dams which were damaged during cyclone Amphan are still unrepaired at different points.

According to Bangladesh Water Development Board, the embankments can be severely damaged again if the cyclone hit the area at high tide.

"A depression has surfaced in the Bay of Bengal. Its effects will begin to be felt in the coastal areas from 25 May. So far there is a possibility that the cyclone will hit the river during high tide," said Satkhira Meteorological Department Officer-in-Charge Zulfiqar Ali.

Preparations are underway to deal with cyclone Yaas and to prevent any loss of life. Photo/TBS

According to Satkhira Water Development Board-1, Satkhira Sadar, Debhata, Kaliganj and Shyamnagar upazilas have 380 km of coastal embankments.

Among these areas, there are risky embankments at 29 points including Gabura and Durgabati in Shyamnagar. Work is underway to repair the broken embankment that was damaged during cyclone Amphan.

Satkhira Water Development Board-2 said there is 303 km of embankments between Assasuni Upazila, Satkhira Sadar and Tala Upazilas.

There are risky embankments at 29 points including Gabura and Durgabati in Shyamnagar. Photo/TBS

Of these, 5.292 km of coastal embankments are at risk at 16 points including Balabaria, Kola, Nasimabad, Yangati and Manikkhali in Asashuni upazila.

Shyamnagar Upazila Nirbahi Officer ANM Abuzar Ghiffari said preparations are underway to deal with cyclone Yaas and to prevent any loss of life.

UP chairmen have already been instructed in this regard to take the necessary steps. Moreover, the fire service, health department, police administration and volunteers have been asked to be ready.