Utility of River Training Structures and Present Status in Patuakhali District Bangladesh

Abstract

Aims: The focus of this study was to know usefulness of river training structures, controlling hydro-morphological characteristics, socio-economic benefits of inhabitants and current situation of these structures in Patuakhali District. Study Design: Evaluations were measured on hydro-morphological features of rivers, protection safety based on utility of structures, environmental and social benefits by spot visit, face to face interview and focus group discussion methods. Place and Duration of Study: Ten different river side location of Patuakhali District during July-Sep in 2015. Methodology: Established five groups including eight persons/group in each location to carry out the questioner and evaluations were accomplished based on specific key point issue. Results: Three categories of river training structure were found at different location of the study area. Revetment with cement concrete (CC) block including 1.75 km bank protection measure from erosion due to high velocity tidal current at Lebukhali point (0.715 km), Patuakhali town protection point 2 (0.62 km) and Khepupara Bandar & town protection (0.42 km). Among them Lebukhali point was found more offensive comparing with others point. The level of risk of all structures was averages under low to medium except Lebukhali point. Conclusion: The training structures were found moderately stable due to maintenance and effectively acting as qualitative benefit for inhabitants in socio-economic aspect.