Katakhali River Dries Up in Hasnabad: Locals Cross on Foot, Environmental Crisis Looms

• The Katakhali River in Hasnabad, North 24 Parganas, is almost completely dry, forcing locals to cross on foot.
• Once a vital waterway for transport and livelihood, the riverbed is now covered with sandbars, losing its natural essence.
• The drying is attributed to tree felling on its banks and various obstructions to its natural flow, impacting ecological balance.
• Bhawanipur Island, historically surrounded by four rivers including Katakhali, faces severe connectivity issues.
• Locals demand a bridge, dredging, and mangrove planting to restore the river and protect the Sunderbans' biodiversity.