CMP proposes new police lines

With an aim to provide safety and security to Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman Tunnel under Karnaphuli River, Chattogram Airport and different economic zones in Anwara upazila, Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) placed a proposal to form new police lines in Karnaphuli area.

The proposal, signed by former CMP commissioner Saleh Mohammad Tanvir, was sent to Police Headquarters. It is now pending approval from the home ministry, said sources.

In the proposal, CMP asked for around 25.18 acres of land near Chattogram Urea Fertilizer Limited (CUFL) factory for the police lines.

Tanvir said CMP's territory and jurisdiction will be extended through this.

"Apart from that, there are ongoing projects in Anwara and Karnaphuli areas, like Korean and Chinese EPZs and the Karnaphuli Tunnel. Besides, there are some security issues at Chattogram airport. Considering all aspects, we have demanded new police lines on the river's other side," he added.

The four new police stations are Bangabandhu Tunnel East Police Station in Karnaphuli upazila, Bangabandhu Tunnel West Police Station in Patenga, Kattali Police Station, and Mohora Police Station.

Currently, CMP has two police lines -- in city's Mansurabad Police Station and Dampara Police Lines.  Dampara is the oldest, situated on around 50 acres of land with five male barracks and one female barrack. Apart from that, CMP school, divisional police hospital, and central armoury are also located at Dampara police line.

Following the space crisis in Dampara, CMP established its second police lines at Mansurabad in 2015 with one barrack and several other establishments.

Contacted, CMP Deputy Commissioner (Estate and Development) SM Mostain Hossain said, "From the home ministry, the proposal will be forwarded to the land ministry for land allocation."

"As there are several key infrastructures and tourist spots on the other side of Karnaphuli River, law enforcers can easily move from the police lines during emergency situations," he said.