Save Ichhamati from encroachers' grip

Human chain in Pabna town demands

9 August 2009, 17:00 PM

Our Correspondent, Pabna

Residents of Pabna town join a human chain yesterday demanding steps to save Ichhamati River from the clutch of grabbers.Photo: STAR

A human chain was formed in Pabna town yesterday demanding immediate steps of the government to save Ichhamati river from the grip of encroachers. Organised by Sushashoner Jonno Pracharavijan (SUPRO) Pabna district unit, teachers, students, businessman and representatives from non-governmental organisations (NGOs) joined the human chain in front of Pabna Press Club in the morning. Addressing a rally at the venue, the speakers urged the authorities concerned to remove illegal structures from the banks of the river flowing through the district town. They said encroachment on the river continues unabated despite strong protests from different bodies. The authorities concerned are yet to take any steps to save the river, they alleged. Besides, they said, the encroachers have also made false documents in favour of their illegal occupation. Later, a memorandum was submitted to the deputy commissioner demanding removal of illegal structures from the banks of the Ichhamati. The district administration, Water Development Board and Zila Parishad conducted a joint survey in 2003 and identified 285 illegal structures. But no steps were later taken to remove those. The last caretaker government had started demolishing the structures, but could not complete the task. Land officials said a fresh survey is going to identify the illegal structures. On completion of the survey, the government will take steps to remove those, they added. Meanwhile Pabna Pourasava has taken a step to dredge the river in 4-km area of the district headquarters to ensure smooth water flow. Sources in the municipality engineering department said Tk 2.82 core has been sanctioned for this purpose.