Illegal sand extraction activities along the Jamuna Riverbanks in Tangail, conducted under the protection of influential local figures, are ongoing without proper leases or permissions. Photo: Messenger
Influential locals in the Kakuya region of Tangail Sadar Upazila are attempting to convert arable land into a sand extraction hub, raising concerns about untimely river erosion and the safety of thousands of riverside residents.
The proposed sand hub is planned for various locations within the Kakuya Union, including the areas of Kakuya, Goyla Hossain, Deogola, Argola, Gopaltithil, and Rajnagar. The local community has taken a stand against this development, submitting a formal written complaint to the Deputy Commissioner, urging immediate action to halt the illegal establishment of the sand hub.
The residents' concerns are well-founded, as the region has already begun to experience the devastating effects of river erosion due to the rising water levels in the Jamuna River. Numerous families have been displaced, losing their homes and livelihoods to the encroaching river. The situation has left many in destitution, with no means to support themselves.
The complaint outlines the illegal activities of sand thieves, who, under the protection of powerful local figures, are attempting to extract sand from the Jamuna River without the proper leases. They are using the guise of development work to carry out their operations. If this extraction continues unchecked, the residents fear that the monsoon season will bring about even more severe erosion, leading to the loss of not only arable land and homes but also endangering mosques and educational institutions.
The impact of the rising water levels has been felt across various areas of Tangail Sadar Upazila's Katuli Union, including the unprotected 1625-meter stretch of Charpauli village, and several villages in Kakuya, as well as Chituliapara, Bhalkutia, Kostapara, and Matikata in Bhuyanpur Upazila's Gobindashi Union, and Patitapara, Konabari. The widespread erosion has prompted a call for intervention from the local community.
Serajul Islam, a resident of Kakuya, highlighted the long-standing issue of erosion in the area, noting that this year, the problem has intensified. He expressed concern that continued sand extraction would lead to the loss of many more homes to the river, prompting a petition to the Deputy Commissioner for assistance.
Locals have reported that last year, a local Awami League leader named Jewel, along with associates of the chairman, initiated sand extraction in the region. The administration intervened to stop the illegal activity, leading to a temporary halt in operations. However, this year, the same group is attempting to resume sand extraction, and fear of retribution has silenced any opposition.
Kakuya Union Parishad Chairman Badiuzzaman Farooq acknowledged the previous year's losses incurred from involvement in the sand business and stated that not everyone is suited for every type of business. He also mentioned that individuals from Sirajganj are typically involved in the sand trade and that he is currently not engaged in any sand-related activities.
Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Hasan Bin Ali said that illegal sand extraction and the establishment of sand hubs along the Jamuna River are strictly prohibited. He assured that regular operations are conducted to enforce these regulations.
The situation in Kakuya is a clear example of how unregulated sand extraction can lead to environmental degradation and displacement of communities. The local residents' plea for intervention is a call to protect their livelihoods and homes from the adverse effects of illegal sand mining.
Messenger/Fameema
