Illegal topsoil extraction threatens ‘Gaillar Haor’, croplands in Sunamganj

Gaillar Haor in Sunamganj

Sunamganj, Jan 22 - Fertile farmlands of ‘Gaillar Haor’ in Shantiganj upazila of Sunamganj district has been facing severe degradation as an influential syndicate continues large-scale illegal extraction of topsoil, posing a serious threat to local agriculture and rural infrastructure.

The upper fertile layer of cropland, commonly known as topsoil, in Alampur village under Purba Pagla Union, is being indiscriminately removed using excavators, according to local people.

The soil is reportedly being used to fill private homesteads and roads, while the ongoing operation has disrupted both agricultural productivity and daily life.

During a recent visit to the area, this UNB correspondent observed multiple excavators digging deep pits across vast stretches of cropland.

The extraction continued day and night, with rows of heavy dump trucks transporting the soil to different locations.

The constant movement of trucks has damaged newly built rural roads, intensifying public suffering.

Local people alleged that the illegal activity is being carried out under the direct leadership of influential former local representatives Saidul Islam and Kalam Mia.

Farmers affected by the soil removal expressed deep concern and said they feared retaliation if they protested openly.

Several farmers, speaking on condition of anonymity, said the removal of topsoil, the most fertile portion of farmland, has permanently destroyed soil productivity. They warned that deep excavation has also increased the risk of adjacent farmlands collapsing.

If the haor is carved up like this, there will be no land left for cultivation in the future, said Jamaluddin, a farmer.

They demanded immediate and strict intervention from the administration.

Under the Soil and Sand Management Act, 2010, extracting soil from agricultural land for commercial or personal use is a punishable offence.

Locals, however, alleged that the syndicate continues its activities by evading administrative oversight or using political influence.

Beyond agricultural damage, the operation has also caused severe deterioration of rural roads.

Heavy trucks carrying soil have led to road collapses, making daily movement increasingly difficult for villagers.

When contacted, Fatema Tuz-Zohra, Assistant Commissioner (Land) of Shantiganj upazila, said the administration is aware of the issue.

“Cutting topsoil from cropland is completely illegal. We have received information about soil extraction in Alampur village. A mobile court will be conducted there soon,” she assured.

Those who were involved in the act would not be spared and legal action will be taken, including the seizure of machinery used in the illegal activity, she said.

Meanwhile, experts from civil society urged for exemplary punishment, including imprisonment and confiscation of excavators, to protect the haor’s fragile ecosystem.

They also feared that if the government did not take immediate action, Shantiganj’s agricultural economy and ecological balance could suffer irreversible damage. - UNB