Mongla, Sept 25 (V7N) – Local residents of Kanainagar in Chandpai Union, Mongla upazila, staged a human chain and protest rally on Thursday morning, alleging that a government-owned canal was being illegally filled with sand. Over one hundred men and women joined the demonstration organized under the banner of “Kanainagar Canal Protection Movement.”

Speakers at the protest said the canal, locally known as Kanainagar Katakhal, is the only drainage route for nearly 200 families in the area. They warned that filling the canal would result in year-round waterlogging, severe disruption to agriculture, and long-term suffering for the community.

Resident Md. Asaduzzaman Daru said, “This canal is the sole water outlet for our village. If it is blocked, we will face waterlogging throughout the year and our livelihoods will be in danger.”

Protesters alleged that Selim Reza Bachchu and Masudur Rahman Tutul, identified as local land grabbers from Ward No. 9 of Chandpai Union, were behind the canal-filling attempt. They claimed the two men had already dumped sand at several points along the canal in a bid to seize it.

Both accused men denied the allegations. Selim Reza Bachchu said, “These accusations are completely false and politically motivated. This is a conspiracy against me. If needed, I will hold a press conference to prove my innocence.” Masudur Rahman Tutul also rejected the claims, saying neither he nor his associates were involved in such activities.

On September 9, residents submitted a written petition with signatures to the Mongla Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) demanding immediate action.

UNO Sharmin Akter Sumi told reporters that no one has the right to occupy or fill any government canal. She assured that legal action would be taken if the allegations proved true.

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