Maheshkhali administration demolished illegal resorts and cottages in Sonadia’s ecologically critical area, reclaiming government khas land through a coordinated drive involving law enforcement, environmental agencies and security forces.
The Maheshkhali upazila administration on Friday launched an eviction drive against illegally built cottages and resorts on government khas land and within an ecologically critical area in Sonadia under Kutubjom Union, reclaiming public land through the demolition of multiple structures.
The operation, carried out on May 9, 2026, was led by Abu Zafar Majumdar, Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate of the Maheshkhali upazila administration.
Authorities said the drive was part of the first phase of an ongoing operation aimed at protecting the environment and recovering government-owned khas land in the Sonadia area. During the operation, an estimated 20 to 25 large, medium and small illegal structures were demolished.
Personnel from the Bangladesh Navy, Maheshkhali Police Station, Bangladesh Coast Guard, Bangladesh Ansar and Village Defence Party, Fire Service and Civil Defence, the Forest Department and representatives of the Department of Environment in Cox’s Bazar took part in the drive and provided overall support.
The administration said such operations would continue in phases to protect the environment, safeguard government khas land and ensure public interest.
