RAJSHAHI, Aug 16 (V7N) — Naba Farm, owned by Nabil Group, has been accused of polluting the environment by allegedly dumping poultry litter and other waste in canals, wetlands and agricultural fields across several areas of Rajshahi and neighbouring regions.
Local residents allege that poultry waste generated at the farm in the Kakonhat area of Godagari is transported by trucks and dumped at different locations, often late at night. They claim the waste is commonly disposed of between midnight and around 3am.
Residents of Goma village in Godagari alleged that poultry litter from the Jhikrapara area of Kakonhat is being transported by truck and dumped in nearby canals, wetlands and farmland. They said the waste has created a strong odour and allegedly contaminated water sources, making them difficult to use for farming and livestock.
Locals further claimed that fish have died in some ponds and that crops have been adversely affected by the waste. In some areas, residents said contaminated pond water could no longer be safely used for irrigation, cooking or household purposes.
Similar allegations have emerged from Foliya Beel, located between Paba and Durgapur upazilas. Residents alleged that poultry waste collected from various farms has been dumped near the wetland at night for an extended period.
Waste allegedly piled up in open areas beside the Rajshahi-Mohanganj road has reportedly caused an unpleasant odour, creating difficulties for residents, pedestrians and commuters.
Additional complaints have been reported regarding poultry waste allegedly being dumped on a drain near the Rajshahi City Haats and in the Kolar Tikor area.
A written complaint was also submitted to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change seeking action to stop the alleged pollution. The complaint, submitted on May 10, alleged that poultry waste from Naba Farm was being dumped at night in canals, wetlands and surrounding areas of Goma village in Ward No. 6 of Godagari Union No. 1.
Complainants also alleged that individuals involved in transporting the waste had intimidated local residents and issued threats when attempts were made to stop waste-carrying vehicles.
Asgar Ali, a member of Ward No. 9 of Badhaire Union Parishad, has also reportedly submitted a written complaint to the assistant director of the Rajshahi Department of Environment regarding the alleged dumping of waste by Nabil Group. Complainants claimed that no effective remedy had been provided despite the complaints.
Naba Farm has previously faced administrative action over allegations of environmental pollution. In July, a mobile court conducted by the Godagari Upazila administration reportedly fined the farm Tk 2 lakh for environmental pollution. An employee of the farm, identified as Naim, was also reportedly sentenced to six months in prison in connection with the same incident.
Local residents alleged that although waste dumping stopped for some time following the action, poultry litter and other waste have again started appearing at various locations.
Residents further alleged that contractors responsible for removing waste from Naba Farm were involved in transporting and dumping it at different sites. They named Shah Jamal, son of Hadisuzzaman of Kadipur in Kakonhat, and Babul Sarkar, son of Anisur Rahman of Jhikrapara, in connection with the allegations. Repeated attempts to contact them for comment were unsuccessful.
Nabil Group Deputy Director Mamunur Rashid referred questions about the allegations to Bablur, general manager of the relevant department. Multiple attempts to contact Bablur by phone were unsuccessful.
Rajshahi Department of Environment Deputy Director Mosammat Tasmina Khatun said the matter would be investigated afresh and legal action would be taken promptly if violations were established.
Local residents have called for a permanent and environmentally sound waste-management system rather than fines or temporary measures. They also demanded an investigation into where, how and under whose authorisation the poultry waste is being disposed of, and appropriate action against those found responsible.
END/MRA/SMA/
