Rabiul Hossain Chowdhury Ripon:
The Kaptai region of the hill district of Rangamati is going through a difficult time due to intense heat waves, abnormally low water levels in Kaptai Lake, a major drop in hydroelectric power generation, repeated load shedding and a three-month fishing ban. Due to the impact from three aspects – natural, economic and social – local life has almost come to a standstill. This tourism-dependent town now has almost no visitors. The Bangladesh Meteorological Department has reported this adverse weather condition. The agency says that like many other regions of the country, Rangamati area is also experiencing a moderate to severe heat wave. Due to high temperatures during the day, there is no relief at night either. Although the demand for electricity has increased due to excessive heat, there has been a major shortage in supply. The main reason for this is the rapid decline in the water level of Kaptai Lake. Due to lack of water, production at the country’s only hydroelectric power station, the Karnaphuli Hydropower Station, has decreased drastically. Out of the five units, only one unit is currently operational at a limited capacity, generating about 40 MW of electricity—much less than its normal capacity. As a result, load shedding has increased in Rangamati and surrounding areas. Domestic life, business, commerce, and educational institutions are being disrupted due to frequent power outages day and night. The drop in water level has also had a direct impact on shipping. Many canals and tributaries dependent on Kaptai Lake have almost dried up. As a result, small boat traffic has stopped, and both time and cost have increased in transporting agricultural products and daily necessities. The local administration is considering taking initiatives to dig canals to manage the situation so that the water flow can be kept somewhat active. Meanwhile, a three-month ban on fishing, transportation, and marketing in the lake has been imposed from midnight on April 25 to protect the natural reproduction of fish and conserve fisheries resources. Although this decision is environmentally important, it has created economic pressure on fishermen’s families and fish-related traders. Although there is a government food assistance system for registered fishermen, many say it is limited compared to the need. The most visible impact has been on tourism. Kaptai, known for its beautiful nature, lake-based travel and boating, now has very little tourist presence. Excessive heat, low lake water, disruptions in navigation and power shortages have all reduced the interest of tourists. Hotels-resorts, boat rentals, local shops – business has plummeted everywhere. Locals say, “You can’t stay in the heat, there is no electricity, there is no water in the lake – how can tourists come in this situation?” They are waiting for rain and monsoon to improve the situation quickly. According to experts, if there is no significant rain, the water level will not be normal, and if the water level is not normal, it is not possible to increase hydroelectric power production. All in all, Kaptai is now facing a multi-dimensional crisis – nature, electricity, livelihood and tourism – four sectors are under pressure at once. Those concerned believe that it will be difficult to overcome this stagnation without monsoon rains and effective management.
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