Bangladesh, July 12 -- Thousands of people in at least seven villages in Panchgachhi Union of Pirganj upazila in Rangpur have been marooned by waterlogging in the Bhelamari Bangnibil wetland, leaving them to endure severe hardship.Restaurants

Continuous rainfall and prolonged waterlogging have brought normal life in the area to a virtual standstill.

The worst-affected villages are Pachkauni, Jahangirabad, Amodpur Kazipara, Paikan, Naiyapara, Kulubon and Mozaffarpur.

According to local residents, rising water levels have submerged village roads, homestead yards, vast areas of cropland and the playgrounds of educational institutions. Many families are unable to leave their homes.

The waterlogging has also created an acute shortage of s...