KAMALGANJ, MOULVIBAZAR, Feb 25: Illegal removal of fertile topsoil from agricultural land in Kamalganj Upazila is continuing unabated, raising serious concerns over declining agricultural productivity, environmental damage, and long-term threats to food security.
Heavy tractors and trolleys carrying soil can be seen operating day and night along various roads in the upazila, particularly in Shamshernagar, Munshibazar, Patanushar unions, and Alepur Village under Kamalganj Municipality. According to locals, the topsoil from fertile cropland is being cut and transported for use in constructing residential houses and infrastructure.
Despite repeated drives by the local administration against illegal soil extraction, the practice continues, allegedly driven by a group of influential soil traders. These traders reportedly pay landowners cash in exchange for permission to remove the top layer of soil, which is then sold for construction purposes.
Residents said soil-laden vehicles operate openly, often under the cover of darkness, and transport soil without proper covering, causing widespread dust pollution. The movement of heavy vehicles has also damaged rural roads, increasing inconvenience and safety risks for local people.
Local farmers Alamgir and Alal said, fertile cropland is being lost due to soil removal for brick kilns, housing construction, and road development.
"The loss of agricultural land is directly affecting crop production and threatening food security. Lack of proper enforcement of agricultural land protection laws is worsening the situation," they said.
Attempts to contact excavator owner Salauddin Mia regarding soil extraction activities were unsuccessful, as his phone was found switched off. Similar allegations were raised against another individual, Musa Mia, accused of extracting soil using excavators in the Morajanpar area of Shamshernagar Union. He also could not be reached for comment.
Environmental activists Nurul Mohamin Milton and Ahad Mia warned that removing the top one to two feet of soil destroys the most fertile layer, which is critical for crop cultivation.
"The upper soil layer contains essential nutrients. Once removed, the land loses its fertility, and restoring productivity can take many years," they said.
A local agriculture official said only about six inches of topsoil is suitable for cultivation, and removing it severely reduces crop yields.
"To restore fertility, farmers must apply large quantities of manure and fertilisers. It may take 10 to 15 years for the soil to regain its original productivity," the official added.
Kamalganj Upazila Nirbahi Officer Mohammad Asaduzzaman said, removing fertile soil from agricultural land is strictly prohibited.
"We are conducting mobile court drives and imposing fines. Investigations are ongoing, and strict action will be taken against those involved in illegal soil extraction," he said.
Experts warn that unless immediate and effective measures are taken, continued removal of fertile soil could cause long-term damage to agricultural sustainability and the rural economy in the region.
