An investigation committee has been formed to probe the alleged disappearance of several hills and dunes in Khagrachari district as a result of rampant hill-cutting, with a view to also suggest ways to stop this illegal practise, State Minister for Environment Shaikh Faridul Islam said Thursday.
The committee, directed to submit its report within seven working days, was appointed following a news report in a vernacular daily that 8 hills in Khagrachari district have 'vanished' in just three months. The State Minister instructed the Chattogram Divisional Commissioner to lead the initiative, said a PID handout.
“If the investigation reveals involvement of the Department of Environment or any government official, strict action will be taken,” he warned.
In the wake of the report that appeared in the Ittefaq, officials reported that two excavators had been seized from Kharichhara Masterpara in Sadar Upazila through mobile court operations in Khagrachari district.
A fine of Tk 1 lakh was collected in Tintohari area of Manikchhari Upazila, and cases were filed in Jogyachola Union and Batnatali.
In Sylhet’s Companiganj Upazila, a recent operation in Bholaganj Shah-Arefin Tila led to the destruction of parts of 10 stone-lifting machines, seizure of three trucks loaded with stones, and the arrests of three people who were later presented in court.
The State Minister ordered stricter surveillance to stop excavator use in hill cutting. He said prior approval from district or upazila administrations would be mandatory for excavator use, with verification of soil sources for brick kilns, and a complete ban on using agricultural land soil in brick kilns.
Cases filed by the Department of Environment are to be investigated and resolved promptly, ensuring the arrest of the accused, said Shaikh Faridul.
He urged all relevant departments to coordinate effectively to protect hills and the environment.
Secretary of the Ministry, senior ministry officials, district Deputy Commissioners, Superintendents of Police, Upazila Nirbahi Officers, and Department of Environment officials were present.