Save Kudalicherra canal

Serious pollution coupled with unabated encroachment for long poses a serious threat to the very existence of the Kudalicherra canal and survival of its aquatic life, apart from having harmful effects on humans.

Environmentalists and civil society members recently expressed their grave concern as no effective measures are being taken by the authorities concerned to stop pollution and illegal grabbing of the Kudalicherra canal in Moulvibazar district town.

When this correspondent visited Uttar Kolimabad, Arambag and Purbo Sultanpur areas under Moulvibazar municipality a few days ago, he found them filled with waste materials like plastic bottles, bags and all sorts of rubbish.

The encroachment spree unleashed by the grabbers has resulted in substantial narrowing down of the canal.

Environmentalists urged the government to take strict and sustainable steps to end the illegal grabbing and stop rampant pollution, which are threatening the very existence and operation of the once fast flowing canal.

Most of the residents of Kolimabad and Arambag areas fear that the canal will die and water-logging will become a regular feature if the grabbing continues.

General Secretary of the Sylhet chapter of Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) Abdul Karim Kim told this correspondent that short and long-term plans are urgently needed to save Kudalicherra canal.

Unplanned short-term dredging complicates the problem, he said, adding that it needs specific long-term actions to arrest pollution and stop illegal grabbing.

Joint Secretary of BAPA Sharif Jamil told this correspondent that canals are very important for any urban area as they carry rainwater to the river and also recharge groundwater.

Mayor of Moulvibazar municipality Fozlur Rahman said he will take immediate steps to solve the problem.