Livelihood Dynamics of Transboundary Riverine Inhabitant’s in Acid Mining vs Non-Mining Affected Areas of Sunamganj, Bangladesh

Rivers are vital freshwater resources that support human livelihoods, yet they are increasingly impacted by upstream flows, anthropogenic activities, and waste discharge from riverside settlements. This study assessed and compared the livelihood status of transboundary riverine communities along the Jadukata and Nawagang rivers in the acid mine-affected and non-mine-affected regions of northeastern Bangladesh. Data were collected from 200 households using structured interviews, focus group discussions, and key informant interviews. Livelihood status was evaluated through five capitals namely human, physical, natural, social, and financial using an equally weighted composite index, the Livelihood Assessment Index (LAI). The overall LAI was 0.487, with individual capital scores of 0.61 (human), 0.72 (physical), 0.36 (natural), 0.55 (social), and 0.198 (financial). When disaggregated, Jadukata riverine areas (mine-affected) had lower scores across most capitals (LAI: 0.449) compared to Nawagang areas (non-mine-affected) (LAI: 0.522). Statistically significant differences were observed in physical, natural, and financial capitals particularly in indicators such as soil erosion protection, air quality, transport infrastructure, hospitality, and income. Although the overall livelihood status in both regions remains low, the Jadukata riverine inhabitants are disproportionately affected by socio-economic vulnerabilities due to acid mining. These findings can inform future research and policy interventions. Targeted awareness programs and environmental safeguards are recommended to mitigate pollution and protect the biodiversity of the Surma River system, to which both rivers are connected.