A writ petition has been filed with the High Court seeking to stop illegal and unplanned sand extraction from the Padma River, citing concerns over riverbank erosion, environmental damage and the safety of the Padma Bridge and its associated infrastructure.
Dr Md Golam Rahman Bhuiyan, chairman of human rights and social development organisation Manobadhikar O Samaj Unnayan Sangstha (MOSUS), filed the public interest petition on Monday. He is also a lawyer and human rights activist.
The petition raises concerns that illegal, unplanned sand extraction could alter the river's natural course, weaken its banks, and damage the surrounding environment and biodiversity. It also warns of potential risks to important national infrastructure, including the Padma Bridge.
It seeks High Court directives requiring the relevant government authorities to fulfil their legal responsibilities, investigate allegations of illegal sand extraction, take legal action against those responsible and implement effective measures to prevent further violations.
The Padma River plays a vital role in Bangladesh's economy, environment, agriculture and fisheries, as well as in the livelihoods of communities along its banks. Disruptions to its natural flow and ecological balance could threaten agricultural land, natural resources and the people who depend on the river.
The petition also highlights the need for scientific assessments and regular monitoring to evaluate the potential impact of sand extraction on the river and the safety of the Padma Bridge and related infrastructure.
MOSUS said the relevant authorities must take effective steps to protect natural resources, uphold environmental justice and ensure the rule of law.
Through the public interest litigation, the organisation seeks judicial intervention to ensure that the authorities take lawful and effective measures to protect the Padma River.
