Illegal sand extraction devastates Sreemangal environment, costs government millions in lost revenue

Despite repeated raids, fines, and legal cases, illegal sand extraction persists in Sreemangal upazila of Moulvibazar, inflicting substantial environmental damage and costing the government an estimated Tk 6-7 crore annually. Officials and environmentalists highlight the ongoing environmental degradation and revenue losses.

Recent administrative efforts have included a four-day operation that seized about 10,000 cubic feet of sand and three extraction machines in Bhunbir Union. Mobile courts have conducted at least 25 drives in several unions, imposing Tk 6 lakh in fines on 10 individuals and confiscating excavators. In total, around 30,000 cubic feet of sand have been seized.

The illegal trade has also led to public disorder. During a joint operation, a sand-laden truck attempted to evade authorities, colliding with a CNG-run auto-rickshaw and a battery-powered three-wheeler. Six people were injured in the crash, which ignited public fury. Locals vandalized and set the truck ablaze, blocking a key road for four hours. Journalists covering the event also reportedly faced attacks.

A case has been filed against 20 individuals for illegal sand extraction and environmental destruction in the Bhunbir and Mirzapur areas. The case statement details how prolonged extraction from hills and farmland threatens the ecological balance, agricultural land, settlements, and local infrastructure. Environmentalists warn that the impact extends beyond mere revenue losses, affecting vital waterways that feed into the Hail Haor ecosystem.

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Illegal sand extraction from hills, streams and agricultural land in Sreemangal upazila of Moulvibazar continues despite repeated raids, fines and criminal cases, causing significant environmental damage and revenue losses, officials and environmentalists said.