Halda River protection drive confiscates 20,000 cubic feet of illegally extracted sand, safeguarding biodiversity and natural fish breeding grounds. Photo : BSS

CHATTOGRAM, Aug 26, 2026 (BSS)- The Fatikchhari Upazila Administration has 
confiscated approximately 20,000 cubic feet of sand that was illegally 
extracted from various locations along the Halda River in Chattogram, which 
is the sole natural fish breeding center in the nation.
 
During the operation, the equipment utilized for sand extraction was also 
seized. 

This operation took place from 12:30am on Tuesday to 5:00am on Wednesday in 
several areas adjacent to the Halda River. 

The drive was led by Fatikchhari Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Sayeed 
Mohammad Ibrahim with participation from Assistant Commissioner (Land) Rahmat 
Ullah, members of Bhujpur Police Station, Ansar, and the Fire Service and 
Civil Defence.
 
The upazila administration reported that a significant quantity of sand and 
the equipment used for its extraction were confiscated during the operation. 
Subsequently, around 20,000 cubic feet of the seized sand was returned to the 
river. Additionally, the equipment used for sand extraction was destroyed.
 
Assistant Commissioner (Land) Rahmat Ullah stated, "The Halda River is a 
vital source of our natural resources and biodiversity. Illegal sand 
extraction is causing severe damage to the river's environment and 
surroundings. The upazila administration's campaign against illegal sand 
extraction will persist to safeguard the Halda River." 

He emphasized that stringent legal measures will be enforced against anyone 
attempting to extract sand unlawfully. 

Sources from the upazila administration indicated that regular campaigns will 
be conducted to combat illegal sand extraction, aiming to protect the Halda 
River's environment and biodiversity. 

Local residents believe that such initiatives by the administration will 
significantly contribute to halting illegal sand extraction from the Halda 
River.