A section of local influential people has been cutting earth mindlessly from the bed of Jalirpar canal, a tributary of the Madhumati River, in Gopalganj for the last four months for using those at a brick kiln.
Local people fear that this rampant earth cutting would put bridges and croplands along the river at risk.
They said despite knowing the fact, the authorities concerned do not take any action against the unscrupulous traders.
Abu Musa, who is involved in earth cutting, said they filled at least 10 trucks with the earth and take those to a brick kiln owned by one Sentu Mia.
He said they had been cutting earth since the dry season began.
Subash Chandra Daidya, member of Jalirpar union parishad, said: “Under the leader of Kenai Sardar who an associate of Sentu Mia labourers have been cutting earth from the river, depriving the government of a huge amount of revenue.
“When local people try to resist them from earth cutting, local handlooms assault them, the concerned is yet to take any measure against such illegal task.”
He feared that a vast track of land may be eroded in the rainy season.
After being by locals, police earlier visited the site, but could not dare to take action against the earth cutting, he added.
When contacted, Kenai Mia he had nothing to in this regard as he was just employee of Sentu Mia.
He also said Sentu Mia had taken permission from the office of deputy commissioner for cutting earth. But, Sentu Mia said he only bought sand from Kenai to use those at his brick kiln.
“We have taken permission from the authorities concerned,” he added.
Md Saiful Islam, additional deputy commissioner, said nobody had taken permission from them for sand lifting.
He said he would look into the matter and take action against the people, who have been cutting earth.
