Illegal structures built on river bank

Illegal structures have narrowed the Done River in Kalapara upazila of Patuakhali, thanks to mindless encroachment by some local influential quarters.

Local people said some influentials in the area are building multi-storey buildings occupying the river bank adjacent to the upazila headquarters.

Thought the spot is about half a kilometre away from the upazila land office the local administration did not take any initiative regarding the matter, they alleged.

While visiting the area recently, this correspondent found one Keramat Hawladar constructing a multi-storey structure occupying 10 kathas of the river bank near the Nutan Bus Terminal.

This corresponded found construction of its ground floor has already been completed and construction works for the other floors are in progress.

When asked, Keramat said he got the land from his father but failed to show any legal document regarding the ownership of the land.

Dipok Kumar Roy, assistant commissioner (land) in Kalapara, said the authorities concerned will launched an eviction drive soon to remove the illegal structures from river bank.

Kalapara Upazila Nirbahi Officer Masud Hasan Patwary said lawful action will be taken against the grabbers.