Environmental Change, Riverbank Erosion and Human Migration: A Review

This paper is an attempt to investigate the relationship between environmental factors and human migration. In this regard, various studies available on migration are reviewed and compiled their findings. The literature was reviewed and analysed using descriptive technique which mostly followed in qualitative research. On the basis of a review of the literature, it has been observed that riverbank erosion is a burning issue in Bangladesh as well as in India, which is caused by floods. Due to riverbank erosion, a huge area eroded every year and it displaced a lot of inhabitants from the riverbank areas. The individuals lose their entire properties, leaving them with limited employment opportunities and reduced financial resources, which heightens the risk of food insecurity. However, the impact of riverbank erosion is not similar in all the areas. Somewhere, the impact is low and somewhere the impact is severe which permanently displaces the inhabitants. Hence, the displaced people are compelled to migrate in search of livelihood. Finally, the paper suggests further in-depth study to analyse the problem and control the riverbank erosion and migration.