Special Correspondent, Faridpur
In the Bhanga area of Faridpur, illegal sand extraction from the Arial Khan River shows no signs of stopping. Two influential groups are exploiting their power to continue these unlawful activities month after month, amassing millions while eluding the authorities. The extraction is endangering homes along the riverbanks and damaging roads, leaving locals too fearful to speak out.
In the Koulibera Union of Bhanga, illegal sand trading thrives, with daily operations involving dredgers extracting sand and selling it via trucks. This operation is generating significant profits for the groups involved. Recently, there were violent confrontations, with accusations against a local powerful figure, Mainul Islam Khan Ripon, for attacking rivals and burning their equipment. Following these events, two supporters of former MP Nixon Chowdhury were detained and sent to jail.
Reports indicate that two dominant factions are involved in the illegal sand mining, with Ripon, Kuti, and Sarwar leading one group, and former chairman Shahjahan and member Suruj leading the other. The most influential figure, Nixon Chowdhury, backs Ripon, who is also reported to possess weapons, further intimidating the community.
Residents have expressed their frustration over the illegal activities that threaten their infrastructure and livelihoods. They call for immediate action against the sand miners, emphasizing that legal operations could bring substantial revenue to the government, which is currently being lost to corruption.
Authorities, including the Assistant Land Commissioner, have acknowledged the complaints and promised legal action against those involved in illegal mining. However, local police claim they have not received formal complaints despite the ongoing illegal activities.
The arrested individuals are known supporters of the former MP and have faced legal issues in the past related to their involvement in anti-student movements. The community continues to suffer from the effects of illegal sand extraction, and residents are urging the government to take decisive action.
Reports indicate that two dominant factions are involved in the illegal sand mining, with Ripon, Kuti, and Sarwar leading one group, and former chairman Shahjahan and member Suruj leading the other. The most influential figure, Nixon Chowdhury, backs Ripon, who is also reported to possess weapons, further intimidating the community.
Authorities, including the Assistant Land Commissioner, have acknowledged the complaints and promised legal action against those involved in illegal mining. However, local police claim they have not received formal complaints despite the ongoing illegal activities.
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