This photo taken from a drone shows illegal sand mining is continuing by several dredgers in Meghna River adjacent to Raipur upazila in Narsingdi. Photo: Messenger
Reckless and illegal sand extraction from the riverbed and banks of the Meghna River adjacent to Raipura upazila in Narsingdi is rampant, occurring without regard to rules and regulations. This activity is causing untimely river erosion and posing a significant threat to nearby homesteads.
A sand lease in Katlarchar Mauza of Paratuli Union has become a focal point for illegal activities since last month. The lessee, in collusion with local illegal sand miners, forms a syndicate that extracts sand indiscriminately from Maherchar and Saharkhola areas, approximately 1.5 to 2 kilometers from Katlarchar Mauza.
Public skepticism surrounds the administration's role in the ongoing sand lifting operation. Questions arise about the administration's potential involvement, as the illegal sand extraction persists without a proper lease. Members of the Balu Chakra express their concerns, emphasizing the need for responsible sand management. Videos depicting the sand lifting activities have circulated on social media, further fueling public discontent.
In an effort to support government development projects, the district administration issued a work order on December 6 for the sand mining lease in Katlarchar Mauza. M/s Mousumi Dredging Project and Nau Paribahan Balumhal secured the lease to extract sand using cutting dredgers, with magnetic dredgers prohibited. However, the sand extraction is occurring illegally, with more than 15 magnet dredgers operating without possession being handed over to the administration.
The unauthorized sand extraction has been ongoing since November 30, without the required payments of 75%, VAT 15%, and 10% income tax, excluding the prescribed security deposit for the lease. The illegal sand mining, taking place day and night, poses a threat to several villages, including Maherchar, Sultanpur, Saharkhola, and Chataban, as they face the risk of river collapse.
Local residents, such as Amir Hossain, Shahalm Miah, Burju Miah, and others, express distress due to sand extraction and fear for the survival of their villages. They highlight the ongoing erosion of Nayachar, a char that protects nearby areas from river erosion. If the illegal sand mining persists, these areas will likely suffer from river erosion, displacing thousands of people and endangering their homes.
Residents of Maherchar village, including Abdul Baten, Abdul Momen, Faiz Uddin Badsha, and others, share how the river's gradual erosion now accelerates due to dredging activities. The impact is evident as the river breaks near their homes, causing panic among the residents.
Concerns are raised about the misuse of the sand lease in Katlarchar Mauza. Mintu Mia, the lessee, acknowledges the use of magnet dredgers for sand extraction, violating the lease conditions. Raipura Upazila Executive Officer Roslin Shahid Chowdhury emphasizes that sand extraction should only occur within the leased area, and any violation will face necessary action.
District Commissioner Dr. Badiul Alam confirms the sand extraction lease in Katlarchar Mauza and underscores the importance of adhering to the specified conditions. The use of magnet dredgers, contrary to the terms, will result in the cancellation of the sand palace lease. Authorities pledge to take measures against any unauthorized sand extraction beyond the designated area.
Messenger/Sun Yath
