Members of Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon (Bapa), Habiganj unit, yesterday demanded removal of illegal structures along a pond, locally known as Gupinathpur pond, in Chirakandi area of the town.

They submitted a memorandum to Habiganj Deputy Commissioner Monish Chakma in this regard. Earlier on Sunday, they visited the pond on about 60 decimals of land and found that grabbing was continuing. 

Mizanur Rahman Mizan, a resident of Chirakandi area, said some local influential people have been occupying three sides of the pond for long. Another portion of the pond is attached to a road. 

Habibur Rahman, former councilor of Habiganj municipality, said locals and traders also dumped wastes on the embankment of the main pond. 

Members of Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon, Habiganj unit, submit a memorandum to Deputy Commissioner Monish Chakma yesterday to save the pond from the grabbers. Photo: Star

Despite repeated pleas, the authorities concerned are yet to take steps to clean the garbage, he said.

Freedom fighter Md Ali Mumin, another resident of the area, said during the monsoon, it becomes almost impossible to live in the area due to the floating garbage.

Tofazzal Sohel, general secretary of Bapa, Habiganj unit, said the encroachment by land grabbers had narrowed the width of the main pond. Several illegal bamboo structures were seen on the pond. 

The grabbers have already occupied 30 decimals of the pond due to negligence of the authorities.

Mayor of Habiganj municipality GK Gaus said the land grabbers are very powerful. In this regard, the municipality needs media help.  The municipality will try to conduct drives against illegal structures, he added.