Allegations have been raised against a local dredger owner for extracting soil from government land along the banks of the Lawari River—which flows through Atkapara village in Dhalamulgaon Union, Purbadhala—despite a previous fine of Tk 50,000. Local residents report that soil extraction has continued even after the Upazila administration issued a ban and a mobile court imposed a fine. Locals allege that soil is being dredged from government land on the banks of the Lawari River in the Atkapara area.

This activity threatens to destroy the natural structure of the riverbank and raises concerns about adverse effects on the river’s navigability and the environment. Residents stated that after the matter came to the attention of the Upazila administration, the Purbadhala Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) inspected the site and ordered a halt to the soil extraction. However, they allege that soil extraction has resumed in defiance of that directive. Locals claim that extracting soil from government land in this manner increases the risk of riverbank erosion.

There are also concerns that the river’s natural flow and navigability could be compromised. They have demanded that the administration take effective measures to stop this illegal soil extraction. Speaking on the matter on Tuesday (September 22) afternoon, Purbadhala UNO Shafiqul Islam said, “We imposed a fine of Tk 50,000 through a mobile court last Thursday. We will take appropriate action regarding the continued soil extraction in violation of the ban.”

Local residents argue that if soil extraction persists despite fines and administrative bans, the matter requires a stricter investigation, and legal action must be taken against those responsible. The locals have called for regular administrative monitoring and effective measures to halt soil extraction and protect government land and the riverbank.