Impact of Riverbank Erosion on Sustainable Livelihoods: A Case Study of Sirajganj Sadar Upazilla

Abstract

Sustainability is a term that carries high importance in people’s lives for carrying better
living conditions. Sustainable livelihood is that type of livelihood which can manage
present stress with its existing competency without threatening natural resources for the
future. But there are a lot of hindrances that are preventing achieving sustainability in our
livelihood. For the geographic location of Bangladesh, this country is facing many
problems which are in the way of preventing achieving sustainable livelihood. Riverbank
erosion is one of them. Riverbank erosion is greatly affecting many areas in Bangladesh.
Among the affected areas by this natural disaster, Sirajganj Sadar Upazilla is one of the
invaded areas by the Jamuna River. The study was intended to determine the impact of
the erosion on the people’s livelihood in the area to sustain their livelihood. To find out
the impact both primary and secondary surveys were done. The questionnaire survey was
conducted among 378 affected households for analysis. KII was also involved in the data
collection method. From the analysis, it is seen that riverbank erosion is badly affecting
the socio-economic status of the resident in the area. According to the study, to ensure the
sustainability of the livelihood it is requisite to take proper steps. The outcome of the
study can help the government and policy-makers to decide how to bring sustainability to
the region with similar problems in Bangladesh.