Multi-storey bldg being built by cutting embankment at Char Fasson

CHAR FASSON, BHOLA, Aug 30: A multi-storey building is allegedly being constructed after a section of an important Water Development Board (WDB) embankment was cut in Chairman Bazar area of Hazirganj Union in Char Fasson Upazila, putting the market and surrounding settlements at risk.

Local tea shop owners Ibrahim and Jewel, also known as Bhangari Jewel, are allegedly carrying out the construction openly.

During a recent visit to the area, a large section of the WDB embankment on the west and south sides of Chairman Bazar was found cut, with soil removed. Concrete foundations and pillars for the multi-storey building were being constructed on the cut section.

Locals expressed concern that the weakened embankment could collapse during the monsoon or a tidal surge. If the embankment gives way, Chairman Bazar, hundreds of nearby homes, croplands and a large populated area could be inundated with saline water.

Residents also questioned the lack of monitoring and preventive action by the authorities despite the construction allegedly continuing openly for days.

After being informed about the matter by the media and locals, the upazila administration and WDB have taken steps, officials said.

Char Fasson Upazila Nirbahi Officer Rumana Afroze said an investigation had confirmed that the embankment had been cut for construction.

“Protecting the embankment in the public interest is our priority. I have issued written instructions to the WDB executive engineer to take strict legal action immediately,” she said.

WDB Bhola-2 Executive Engineer Asaf Uddoula said the matter had come to their attention.

“Constructing an illegal structure by cutting a government embankment is completely unlawful. Steps are being taken to evict the illegal occupants and take strict legal action against those responsible for damaging the embankment,” he said.

Concerned locals demanded an immediate halt to the construction and urged the administration to demolish the illegal structure through a mobile court and restore the embankment to its original condition.