PAIKGACHHA, KHULNA, Mar 28: Government roads in Paikgacha Upazila are being heavily damaged by trucks and tractors carrying bricks and soil from local brick kilns, residents said. The five-kilometre road connecting Dabadua Shahpara in Chandkhali has become almost impassable.
Locals reported that vibrations from heavy vehicles are causing large cracks in nearby mud houses, while dust is triggering respiratory problems and other health issues. Families living along the road are now at risk.
According to sources, there are 14 brick kilns in the upazila, most operating without environmental clearance or proper documentation. Many are built over residential areas and agricultural land, damaging crops and lowering productivity. Heavy vehicle movement is also destroying government assets worth millions of taka.
Residents said brick kiln owners allow continuous transport of bricks and soil despite road damage. Rajoul Sardar, a local resident, said, "Authorities have not intervened, and we are forced to risk using the road every day."
Monwara Begum, another resident, said her home has developed large cracks from the vibrations, and she fears it may collapse.
Sharmini Akter added that dust from passing vehicles is causing widespread health problems in the area.
Tractor driver Abdi Hasan said the brick kiln owners control all transport activities and do not allow operation without their approval.
Raju Hawlader, Assistant Engineer of the Water Development Board (WDB), said authorities would take steps to protect government roads.
Upazila Nirbahi Officer Wasijjaman Chowdhury added that illegal extraction and transportation of soil and bricks is criminal and that the administration has conducted multiple campaigns to monitor and prevent damage.
Residents have called for urgent action to stop the destruction and protect lives and property.
