Severe riverbank erosion has returned to parts of Malda as the water level of the Ganga continues to rise, leaving several families homeless in West Ratanpur village under Mahanandatola Gram Panchayat in Ratua-I block.
The erosion has also caused extensive damage to a local primary school, with a large portion of West Ratanpur Primary School already being swallowed by the river.
Residents said the remaining section of the school building is also under threat as the river continues to erode the bank. With the situation becoming increasingly unsafe, classes for students have temporarily been shifted to another school.
Several families living close to the riverbank have already lost their homes due to the erosion. The affected residents are facing uncertainty as the river continues to encroach on inhabited areas.
The latest erosion has created fear among residents of West Ratanpur, who are concerned that further rise in the water level could cause additional damage to homes and public infrastructure.
Editorial Analysis
Why This Matters
The situation highlights the direct human impact of riverbank erosion, with families losing their homes and children facing disruption to their education. Damage to a school also shows how erosion can threaten essential public infrastructure in vulnerable riverbank communities. Further erosion could result in additional displacement and damage if the Ganga water level remains high.
The impact on the primary school has also raised concerns over the education of children in the affected area. Temporary arrangements have been made to ensure that students can continue attending classes while the original school premises remain unsafe.
Local residents are closely monitoring the situation as the Ganga continues to threaten the remaining portions of the village and the school.
The recurring erosion in the area has once again highlighted the vulnerability of settlements located along the Ganga riverbank in Malda.
