Chalan Beel: The largest watershed in Bangladesh

Chalan Beel: The largest watershed in Bangladesh

Marshy lowland is known as beel in Bengali. Chalan beel is the largest wetland in Bangladesh. It spread across three districts named Pabna, Shirajgonj and Natore. At the time of formation the Chalan beel was about 2000 sq km in size but now a days it shrinked to 1150 sq km. The shrinkage occurred due heavy siltation by the rivers go through the Chalan Beel. Forty seven number of rivers flowing though the beel. The main rivers are the Atrai, Baral, Gumani etc. Chalan beel consists of a series of beels connected to each other through canals. At rainy season the entire area flooded with the water from the rivers. 

Vast water stretching to the Horizon

The houses appear unconnected to each other as if isolated island due to water everywhere. The roads, street and pedestrian path go under water at rainy season; that is why the dwellers of Chalan beel  use boat to go here and there.    

Isolated House at Chalan Beel

The agricultural land goes under water at this rainy season. No crop production is possible because of water logging all over the crop field. The water level rises to a level so high that the buildings constructed to be used for irrigation purpose in the dry season goes under water.

Irrigation facility for dry season goes under water.

Local administration, health service facility run properly as these buildings are made on high columns to defend flood water. The establishments are built at such places with the aim to help the people get the services they require.

Administration and Health service at same place

Buildings constructed on High Column

The roads and streets go under water, only the railway continues its operation properly. The rail track is higher than the water level so the trains can run uninterruptedly through the Chalan beel. Railway in the biggest watershed gives a pleasant view. Journey by train through Chalan beel at rainy season is sure to provide any person with happy feeling. 

Beautiful rail bridge at Chalan beel

 Beautiful Rail Bridge at Chalan Beel

The schools are build on high column to keep away the water. The students use small boat to reach the school as well as come back.

Primary School at Chalan Beel

Chalan beel a big source of fresh water fish. It provides a wide variety of local fishes to the market. Moreover, Chalan beel is a place of natural beauty. Your body and mind will be refreshed and recharged with the tranquility of Chalan beel.

Chalan beel in video

How to reach-

Buses and trains are available to reach chalan beel from anywhere in the country. To reach there by bus you have to go Kachikata under Natore district first. Lots of engine operated boats are available there to enjoy the beauty of Chalan beel. By train first you have to reach Baral Bridge station or Dilpashar station, then hire a boat from the river ghat and spend memorable time at Chalan Beel.