Bangladesh has formed a three-member committee to investigate alleged illegal hill cutting at Ramgarh Land Port in Khagrachhari and report findings within three working days.
The Bangladesh government has ordered a three-member investigation committee to verify allegations of environmental destruction and illegal hill cutting at the Ramgarh Land Port in Khagrachhari, following reports published in the local newspaper Amar Desh. The port, located in a hilly, ecologically sensitive region near the Bangladesh–India border, is a key hub for cross-border trade.
Brigadier General (Retd.) Dr M Sakhawat Hossain, Adviser to the Ministry of Shipping and the Ministry of Labour and Employment, emphasized immediate action against environmental violations. He said any illegal land filling or hill cutting, if found, will not be tolerated and the responsible parties will face strict legal action.
A press release issued on Thursday, January 8, by Kazi Arif Billah, public relations officer of the Ministry of Shipping, confirmed the committee has been tasked with completing a field investigation and submitting a detailed report within three working days.
Environmental experts have expressed concern that indiscriminate hill cutting could damage forests, local biodiversity and water resources, threatening the ecological balance of the region.
The government also highlighted the strategic and economic importance of the Ramgarh Land Port, which was established under a previous administration. A specialized expert committee had previously assessed the project’s benefits and risks, and authorities have been informed of the findings for necessary follow-up.
The government affirmed its commitment to transparency and accountability, ensuring public interest and environmental protection remain a top priority.
