Local filed complaint at least twice since June 20, 2025 to Department of Environment but they are not responding to their call or did not any action to save the pond
In a blatant violation of environmental regulations, a century-old pond in the heart of Chattogram’s Chawkbazar area is being illegally filled using excavators in broad daylight to make way for residential plots. Despite written complaints to the Department of Environment (DoE), locals say no action has been taken for over a week.
The pond, located beside the Boro Mia Mosque on Aman Ali Road, spans approximately 36 decimals and is known as part of the historic Saleh Ahmad Vendor Bari.
According to official land survey records (BS Khatian), the pond originally belonged to Saleh Ahmad and was later inherited by his daughters. The current owner, Zayedul Alam, reportedly bought the property from them.
According to a recently published report, nearly 24,000 ponds have disappeared from Chattogram city over the past four decades due to the negligence of the Department of Environment and other government agencies, as well as their failure to take legal action—causing severe impacts on the city’s environment and ecosystem.
Local resident Mohammad Shakil said that about two years ago, a Saudi expatriate named Ayub Ali purchased four decimals of the pond and filled it to construct a semi-permanent structure.
Over the past ten days, Zayedul Alam began filling the remaining portion of the pond to create residential plots. In response, residents submitted two formal complaints to the DoE on June 20 and June 24.
However, even after a week, no action was taken, said a local resident Zisan Hasan.
Taking advantage of this inaction, Zayedul Alam—with the help of his brothers Zahedul Alam and Rashedul Alam—hired contractors and began dumping sand day and night. Nearly half the pond has now been filled.
When contacted about the lack of response on Saturday 3pm, Sonia Sultana, Director of the Chattogram Metropolitan Office of the Department of Environment, said, “Action will be taken very soon regarding this incident.” However, no action was taken till filing the report on Saturday 8pm.
Zahedul Alam, the elder brother of Zayedul, denied the allegations, said “The pond was already destroyed by people dumping waste. During the monsoon, the overflowing water enters our homes. We are only raising the bank of the pond with some soil to protect ourselves from flooding.”
However, an on-site visit contradicted his claims. It was clearly observed that the pond was being filled with soil and sand and a large excavator was leveling the filled area—confirming extensive encroachment.
Locals alleged that those involved in the pond filling are influential and cannot be stopped at the community level. They fear the destruction of the pond will severely affect lower-income families who depend on it for daily water use.
Moreover, blocking the natural water drainage path raises concerns of severe waterlogging in the upcoming rainy season.
Residents are urging the Department of Environment to take immediate action to preserve the pond and prevent further environmental degradation.
