Bhasan Char is a newly formed island located near the coast of the Bay of Bengal, at the mouth of the River Meghna. The name ‘Bhasan Char’ is derived from the Bengali term ‘char,’ which means sediment. The island has emerged as a result of sedimentation, creating a mud-flat that is prone to flooding because of tidal activity and monsoon rains. In an effort to alleviate overcrowding in refugee camps at Cox’s Bazar, the Bangladesh government has initiated the relocation of Rohingya refugees to Bhasan Char, despite some international concerns.
Geographical Formation of Bhasan Char
The formation of Bhasan Char is a direct result of the dynamic sedimentation process prevalent in the delta region of the River Meghna. Over years, the accumulation of silt and sediment carried by the river currents has given rise to this mud-flat island. This natural phenomenon is common in the delta regions where rivers meet the sea, leading to the creation of new land masses over time. Bhasan Char is one of the many chars that have developed in this area, but its recent emergence makes it particularly unstable and vulnerable to environmental changes.
Vulnerability to Flooding
Due to its low-lying nature and the fact that it is a sedimentary island, Bhasan Char is susceptible to frequent flooding. The tidal activity in the Bay of Bengal can cause water levels around the island to rise significantly, especially during the high tide. Furthermore, the monsoon season brings heavy rains to the region, exacerbating the risk of flooding. These factors contribute to the island’s delicate ecological balance and pose challenges for habitation and development.
Relocation of Rohingya Refugees
In response to the overcrowded refugee camps in Cox’s Bazar, where hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees have settled after fleeing violence in Myanmar, the Bangladesh government has begun transferring some of these individuals to Bhasan Char. The government has constructed housing and infrastructure on the island to accommodate the refugees, citing the need to reduce congestion and improve living conditions in the existing camps. However, this move has been met with scrutiny and concern from various international organizations and human rights groups. They question the safety and habitability of the island, given its propensity for flooding and isolation from the mainland.
International Concerns and Responses
International agencies and human rights organizations have expressed reservations about the relocation project to Bhasan Char. One major concern is the island’s ability to withstand extreme weather events, such as cyclones, which are common in the region. Critics also argue that the isolation of the island could limit the refugees’ access to essential services and livelihood opportunities. There are fears that the relocation may not be entirely voluntary, and that refugees may not have been provided with adequate information to make an informed decision about moving to the island. In response to these concerns, the Bangladesh government has assured that all measures are being taken to ensure the safety and welfare of the relocated refugees.
Infrastructure and Facilities on Bhasan Char
To prepare Bhasan Char for the arrival of refugees, the Bangladesh government has invested in developing the necessary infrastructure. This includes the construction of flood protection embankments, housing units, schools, and healthcare facilities. The government has also implemented projects to provide clean drinking water and to ensure proper sanitation on the island. These efforts are part of a broader plan to create a sustainable living environment for the Rohingya community, which has faced significant hardships in their displacement.
Future Prospects
The future of Bhasan Char as a habitable place for the Rohingya refugees remains uncertain. While the Bangladesh government continues to support the development of the island, the success of the relocation program will depend on the ongoing management of environmental risks and the provision of adequate support services for the refugees. International oversight and cooperation may also play a crucial role in ensuring that the human rights and safety of the Rohingya population are upheld during their stay on Bhasan Char.