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BHASAN CHAR

Why in the news?

Bhasan Char, an island in the Bay of Bengal that has become a focal point of global attention. Located off the coast of Bangladesh, Bhasan Char, meaning ‘Floating Island,’ is a newly emerged landmass formed by silt deposits from the Meghna River.

Source : Study marathon

About bhasan char

Spanning over 40 square kilometers, Bhasan Char was originally uninhabited. But in recent years, it has been developed to accommodate a pressing humanitarian need: providing shelter for Rohingya refugees fleeing persecution in Myanmar.

Since 2017, hundreds of thousands of Rohingya refugees have sought refuge in Bangladesh, with many initially settling in the overcrowded camps of Cox’s Bazar. To ease this burden, the Bangladesh government began relocating some of these refugees to Bhasan Char. The island now hosts around 30,000 Rohingya, offering them newly built housing, schools, healthcare facilities, and access to essential services.

• However, Bhasan Char’s development has not been without controversy. Concerns have been raised by international organizations about the island’s habitability, especially during monsoon season, and the potential risks posed by its isolation and vulnerability to cyclones. Despite these concerns, the Bangladesh government has invested heavily in flood defenses, embankments, and infrastructure to ensure the safety and well-being of the island’s residents.
• Bhasan Char is more than just a temporary refuge; it’s a place where the Rohingya community is building a new life, despite the challenges. The island offers them a sense of stability and hope for a better future, even as the global community continues to seek a long-term solution to the Rohingya crisis.
• While Bhasan Char may be a small, remote island, it stands at the heart of a significant humanitarian effort. As the world watches, this island is slowly becoming a symbol of resilience and the enduring human spirit