Climate Change Impact in Khulna City: Waterlogging and Salinity Intrusion
One major climate change–induced impact affecting Khulna City is the rising problem of waterlogging combined with salinity intrusion. Due to heavier-than-normal rainfall, sea-level rise, and the reduced drainage capacity of the Rupsha and Bhairab rivers, many areas of Khulna suffer frequent and prolonged waterlogging. At the same time, increasing salinity from the coastal belt is gradually entering surface water and groundwater sources.
This issue creates multiple challenges: roads and houses remain flooded for long periods, damaging infrastructure and disrupting daily movement. Salinity makes drinking water scarce, affects public health, and even harms vegetation inside the city. Many low-income communities in Nirala, Boyra, Daulatpur, and Sonadanga struggle the most because they have fewer resources to recover from repeated flooding.
Khulna City has begun adapting in several ways. The city corporation is improving drainage systems, dredging surrounding canals, and raising road levels in vulnerable neighborhoods. Community members are also taking adaptive steps such as rainwater harvesting, using elevated tube wells, and building houses on raised plinths. NGOs and local groups are spreading awareness about water safety and supporting low-cost water filtration technologies. While progress is visible, long-term resilience will require stronger urban planning and coordinated action to cope with future climate stresses.