Home ›› 12 Sep 2021 ›› Nation
The furious floods that hit several areas in Sirajganj recently have put the renowned handloom industry in the district on the verge of extinction. Damaged looms are forcing weavers to look for other sources of livelihood, said Sirajganj Chamber of Commerce and Industry sources.
Thousands factories in flood prone areas have incurred huge losses due to the flood. Many factories have been submerged and lots of raw materials were ruined.
At the same time, hundreds of loom workers lost their jobs and now are living in inhumane conditions.
Weaving products are made in about 5 lakh powerloom and handloom machines in Sirajganj. More than 10 lakh people are working these industries.
But as most of the factories have sunk under flood water in Shahjadpur, Belkuchi, Chowhali, Enayetpur, Kazipur and Sirajganj Sadar upazilas, all industrial operations are at a standstill for a long period of time.
Although the water level in the Jamuna River is decreasing, most of these factories still remain underwater, which means there is still no signs of light at the end of the tunnel for people whose fate is intertwined with it.
The exact amount of the loss is yet to be calculated, but thousands of looms have been wasted due to floodwater.
Besides, raw materials including cotton, silk, wool linen, yarns, handlooms and other materials required for manufacturing have all been damaged in most of these places.
Owners and employees of the loom factories or at least what remains of these factories demanded incentives from the government so that they can turn the wheel of their fortunes once again.
Handloom worker Asadul Islam of Belkuchi said he has no work during the last 15 days. He decided to change the profession.
Worker Shasul Islam in Sadar upazila and Raqibul of Shahjadpur alleged they did not get any help from the government.
Chamber of Commerce and Industry President Abu Yousuf said they have asked for compensation and incentives from the concerned ministry to the helplessness of people related to the loom industries.
Deputy Commissioner of Sirajganj Dr Faruk Ahmed could not be reached over cell phone for his comments in this regard.
