The floating structures have enough space for 10 families to keep ducks, and grow vegetables on beds of water hyacinth (like these). “It’s a good idea to use the surface water [for growing],” says Rezwan. “We’re expecting big floods in the next few years [which will reduce the available farmland].” The farms also help reduce migration, he adds, because local people can stay put, rather than going to higher ground.
Shidhulai Swanirvar Sangstha’s 22 school boats already educate 1,800 kids. But Rezwan wanted something that would let kids run around, not just study. The two-desk vessels, which are 65 feet long, allow that, and the top floor can also be used for community activities. They can accommodate 30 kids at a time.
