Engine-driven dredger illegally extracting and  transporting sand from the Halda River. Photo: BSS

 
CHATTOGRAM, Nov 24, 2025 (BSS) - Hathazari upazila administration has fined 
three individuals a total of Taka one lakh for illegally extracting and 
transporting sand from the Halda River using an engine-driven dredger.

In addition to the fine, each person has been sentenced to 15 days of non-
compulsory imprisonment if they fail to pay the penalty.

The operation was conducted this afternoon in the Madunaghat area of the 
Halda River, led by Hathazari Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) Shahed 
Arman. He was assisted by Senior Upazila Fisheries Officer Shawkat Ali, the 
Naval Police, and Halda River guards.

The accused - Md Ibrahim, Md Hannan and Md Sabuj - were fined Taka 1 lakh 
each under the Sand and Soil Management (Amendment) Act 2023. In case of non-
payment, each will serve 15 days of non-compulsory imprisonment.

Assistant Commissioner (Land) Shahed Arman said similar drives will continue 
to protect the Halda River's biodiversity in the public interest.