A writ petition has been filed with the High Court seeking directives to stop the dredging activities by the S Alam Power Plant and remove the breakwater in Boroghona of Banshkhali of Chattogram district.
Abul Hossain, assistant general secretary of Gandamara Barguna Multipurpose Cooperatives’ filed the writ petition with the HC bench on Wednesday.
It also sought directives to compensate for the damage being caused to the livelihoods of fishermen at this jetty due to the docking of the coal-carrying lighter ships of the S. Alam Group.
A total of 11 people including secretary to the Environment, Forest and Climate Change Ministry, Chairman of S. Alam Group Mohamamd Saiful Alam, Mnaging Director of SS Power Plant, Assistant Land Officer of Bashkhali Upazila in Chattogram were made respondent to the writ petition.
The writ petition will move to the HC bench of Justice Md. Mozibur Rahman Miah, said Advocate Mohammad Faruk.
The jetty area in West Baraghona of Gandamara, long known as a hub of activity for local fishermen, is reportedly facing disruption due to the anchoring of coal-laden lighter vessels belonging to S Alam Group, putting thousands of livelihoods at risk.
Fishermen allege that the arrival and operations of S Alam Group’s vessels have led to frequent incidents of damage.
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Nets are reportedly torn by vessel propellers, while sampans are often struck in the dark, causing accidents.
In more serious cases, there are claims that some fishing boats have been deliberately sunk.
Amid growing tension, affected fishermen recently staged a protest in the West Baraghona jetty area.
When speaking at the demonstration, the fishermen said they are forced to travel 20–30 kilometers daily into the sea to catch fish.
On their return, project personnel allegedly demand a portion of their catch. On refusal, they claim, results in being denied access to the jetty for offloading.
They also stressed that the jetty is crucial during the four-month hilsa fishing season, which is vital for the region's economy. However, ongoing restrictions and alleged harassment are now pushing the local economy into crisis.
Protesting fishermen said the project is destroying their traditional source of income.
They demanded immediate assurances for the safe docking of fishing boats and sampans at the jetty, as well as employment opportunities for locals within the S Alam Group project.