Rajshahi, JUNE 03 (V7N) – Paved roads in Durgapur, Rajshahi, have allegedly become treacherous "death traps" for vehicles, particularly motorcycles, due to the rampant and seemingly unregulated sale of soil from pond renovations. Locals report that soil spilled from tractors transporting the excavated earth mixes with rainwater, creating slippery and hazardous conditions. Despite a government ban on such activities, influential individuals are reportedly flouting regulations, and residents are accusing the administration of inaction.

On-the-ground observations reveal extensive soil extraction in the name of pond renovation in the Ujankhalsi Beel area of Kismat Gankoir Union, spanning approximately 150 bighas of land. The continuous movement of tractors carrying this soil is not only spilling mud onto the roads but also causing significant damage to newly constructed paved roads, built at considerable public expense.

Reports indicate that soil is being sold at prices ranging from 800 to 2000 Taka per tractor, depending on the distance of transport. A local influential figure identified as Belal Hossain is allegedly managing these operations, leveraging various connections to profit from the soil sales.

Local residents stated that Abul Kalam Azad, former mayor of Taherpur Municipality in Bagmara Upazila, initiated this pond excavation project last year after becoming a member of parliament. While the official documents for the project were reportedly in the name of Kartik Saha, a resident of Taherpur Municipality, a person named Belal Hossain, identified as a BNP supporter from the same area, took over the project on April 24. Abul Kalam Azad is currently in Dinajpur District Jail following his arrest in a murder case.

Concerns are high among local residents regarding public safety. Alamgir Hossain lamented the use of unlicensed tractors and trolleys by drivers who also lack proper driving licenses, stating, "It's very sad that there is no one to look after them." He urged motorcyclists to exercise extreme caution on the road from Durgapur to Taherpur, citing news of at least four accidents on this stretch. Mozammel Haque, a trainee lawyer, recounted his own narrow escape, saying, "The situation is very terrible, I survived for a while. I am slipping three times in the Uzan Khalsi Beel. The situation is very bad due to the mud from digging a pond on the road. There is no one to see this." Motaleb Ali added, "I myself fell off a bike once. When will they come to their senses?"

When questioned about the necessary permissions for pond renovation and soil transport on government roads, Kartik Saha, identified as being in charge of the pond project, claimed the renovation was permitted. However, he directed inquiries about the road damage caused by soil sales to Belal, who is reportedly managing that aspect. Attempts to contact Belal Hossain via mobile phone for comment were unsuccessful.

Local residents are now urging the administration to intervene immediately to halt the illegal pond excavation and soil sales to ensure road safety and facilitate normal traffic.

Durgapur Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Sabrina Sharmin had reportedly visited the site a week prior and temporarily stopped the pond excavation work, advising adherence to legal procedures. When asked about the issue, the UNO stated that she was unaware of the soil sales occurring in the name of pond renovation. However, she assured that immediate action would be taken against those found causing public suffering by using government roads for soil sales.

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