M. S. I Sharif, Bholahat (Chapainawabganj) Correspondent:

Despite the strict stance of the administration in Bholahat Upazila of Chapainawabganj, there have been allegations of illegal excavation of soil using dredgers late at night. Local sources have informed that an influential group in the Adampur area of ​​Jambaria Union of the upazila has been carrying out this activity for a long time, eluding the administration.

The source also said that recently, the newly appointed Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) of Bholahat Upazila went on a drive and seized various parts of the dredger used at the site of excavation. But even after the administration's drive, the accused group has started digging soil again at the same site by installing a dredger in the dark of night.

It is alleged that an unscrupulous group led by some influential people in Jambaria Union has been conducting this illegal activity for a long time. Although there is talk of filling canals and low-lying areas, in reality the excavated soil is being supplied to various brick kilns through tractors and trolleys.

According to government rules, soil cutting that damages agricultural land and the environment is prohibited. However, local conscious people have expressed concern over the continued soil cutting despite showing the thumbs down to the law and administration. According to them, if soil removal from agricultural land continues in this way, it may have a negative impact on agricultural production in the future, including reducing the fertility of the land.

When contacted regarding the complaint, former UP member and Awami League leader Md. Yusuf Ali admitted the truth of the soil cutting. However, he disconnected the phone, saying that he would talk about the details later.

Meanwhile, Chairman of Jambaria Union Parishad No. 4 Md. Afaz Uddin Panu Mia said, "I am not aware of the soil cutting late at night. However, I will cooperate with the administration in stopping illegal soil cutting, InshaAllah."

Locals claimed that it is not possible to stop illegal soil cutting without regular monitoring and strict action by the administration.