The historic Gazni Dighi in Barisal Sadar Upazila, dating back to 1550 AD, stands as a testament to Mughal-era engineering and spiritual heritage.
Once a vibrant center of community life and religious devotion, the 25-acre pond—located in Chanpura village of Chandpura Union—is now at risk due to unchecked encroachment and criminal activity.
Excavated by Boiram Khan, guardian of Emperor Akbar, the pond was originally built to provide clean drinking water to locals. It later became a spiritual site, with Sufi saint Gazni Shah settling nearby to spread Islam.
The shrine of Batash Fakir on the western bank continues to draw devotees year-round.
Despite its historical significance and potential as a tourism hub, Gazni Dighi has suffered years of neglect.
Locals report illegal land grabbing, fake documentation, and unauthorized construction along its banks. At least 27 residential structures have emerged on the eastern and southern edges, damaging the pond’s natural contours and weakening its embankments.
Residents also allege rampant illegal fishing, tree felling, drug activity, and harassment of visitors.
“Gazni fair used to be held here every year, but now its heritage is being destroyed,” said Abul Sharif, a local resident. Another, Shahjahan Mallick, warned that without immediate intervention, the site’s legacy could be lost forever.
Advocate Nazrul Islam Khan Rajon, president of the Barisal Divisional Development and Welfare Protection Committee, accused political groups of facilitating the encroachment.
“This Dighi needs to be protected from land grabbers,” he said.
Arifur Rahman, custodian of the Barisal Divisional Museum, described Gazni Dighi as a “priceless monument” and stressed its potential as a tourist destination if properly conserved.
Local authorities have responded with plans to restore and promote the site.
Barisal Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Iqbal Hasan said efforts are underway to integrate tourism and heritage preservation, including the installation of benches and proposed suspension bridges to enhance visitor access.
Deputy Commissioner Delwar Hossain has pledged to visit the site and take necessary steps to protect and develop it.
The government also plans to bring Gazni Dighi under the Bangladesh Tourism Corporation and officially declare it a tourist spot.
