Allegations have emerged that more than 200 trees were felled in Boalmari upazila of Faridpur during a government canal re-excavation project, sparking controversy over environmental damage and procedural violations.
Locals said the trees were felled in the Nadiarchand area of Gunbaha Union along a two-kilometre stretch from the Madhumati River to the Kamargram Sluice Gate, where excavation work is currently underway. They alleged that political and social influence was used under the guise of development work.
According to residents, around 200 mahogany—planted about 15 years ago under a Forest Department social afforestation programme—were cut down last week. The trees were part of a larger plantation of nearly 10,000 saplings planted during the 2012–13 fiscal year along both sides of the canal from Taltala to Vennatala Bazar, forming a long-standing green belt.
Locals further alleged that the trees were cut without following proper procedures, including prior approval from the Forest Department, and that the felled timber was not officially handed over to authorities as required.
The issue came to light after a video showing tree cutting in the area went viral on social media, triggering public concern and administrative action.
Following the incident, Boalmari Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) SM Rakibul Islam conducted a raid at around 9:30 pm on Monday at the residence of Hemayet Uddin, president of the local social forestry committee and assistant principal of Naderchand High School. Authorities reportedly seized at least 60 logs of felled trees from the site. Hemayet Uddin is currently absconding.
In response, the administration has formed a four-member investigation committee headed by the Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land). The committee is set to begin its inquiry on Saturday, focusing on the extent of tree felling and possible legal violations.
Boalmari Upazila BNP President and Gunbaha Union Parishad Chairman Sirajul Islam has been accused locally of involvement through his supporters. However, he denied the allegations in a Facebook post, stating that he is connected with the canal excavation project but not involved in tree cutting, calling the claims politically motivated.
Upazila Forest Officer Din Mohammad Molla said canal-side trees cannot be removed without official permission and confirmed that no authorization had been issued for cutting trees in this case.
Boalmari UNO SM Rakibul Islam said any illegal tree felling would be identified and legal action taken, adding that government timber must be auctioned and proceeds deposited into the state treasury.
Faridpur Forest Department Divisional Officer Tariqul Islam said the matter is being treated seriously and strict action will follow if irregularities are confirmed.
