Growing up in my grandparent's house, I was surrounded by warmth. It wasn't just the house or the yard that provided this comforting feeling, but the entire village. However, when I return to my childhood village of Morichbunia now, all I feel is the heat of development that has destroyed the land, the economy, and the people's last remaining asset. The loss is not only visible in the form of land, but it also affects our homes, culture, agriculture, memories, kinship system, and even our identity. This destruction doesn't just impact human life; it also harms the ecosystem, local plants, rivers, and animals. The memories of underdevelopment reveal the complex issues of identity, belonging, and loss that individuals experience when their homes are transformed by large-scale development projects. This highlights the profound social, cultural, and environmental consequences of such endeavors.
"The sand filling work for this project is almost complete, with 80% already filled. As we walked over the sand, he made a poignant observation: "Underneath this sand lie the dreams, hopes, and aspirations of many, and even the graves of some ancestors; it's truly unimaginable." The second phase of the coal power plant project is currently underway, covering an expansive area of 900 acres. He then guided us to the remaining few houses located in the southeast corner of the project. This small village was adorned with beautiful ponds, trees, and livestock. Unfortunately, even the residents of this village have been served notices, instructing them to vacate their homes within a week. Montu Kha, 65, who is also a victim of the Payra Coal Plant, shared his story".
Mosfiqur Rahman Johan
Bangladesh
Born in Bangladesh in 1997, Mosfiqur Rahman Johan is an anthropologist and documentary photographer. He passionately documents humanitarian issues, environmental concerns and socio-political events. Johan travels extensively across Bangladesh, capturing visual narratives that raise awareness and highlight lesser-known stories. His works have been awarded, exhibited, and featured internationally.