A building is being constructed by occupying Algi canal in Chandrapara area under Baufal upazila in Patuakhali on Baufal-Kalisuri road. Several reinforced concrete columns (RCC pillars) are also being constructed in the canal to support the building under construction.

During a recent visit, it was seen that some workers were working in the building by occupying a part of the canal.

Some workers who were working there (wishing not to be named) said a local man named Khalilur Rahman is constructing the building. The construction work of this building has been going on for the last one week.

According to the locals, the canal has a normal tidal flow and the local farmers use the water of the canal for irrigating their land.

Abdul Mannan, a neighbour of Khalilur, said the construction of the building by grabbing a part of the canal will obstruct the normal flow of water.

He also said that the matter should be looked into by the authorities concerned.

Building owner Khalilur Rahman denied occupying the canal and said, "I am constructing the building on my own land and not by occupying the canal." 

"I also have land in the canal," he said.

However, when this correspondent wanted to see the design and related documents of the land, he refused to show it and refused to make any more comments.

Contacted, Baufal upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) Anichur Rahman Bali said, there is no way to construct a building by occupying the canal. 

"I'm looking into it; if the allegation of occupying the canal is proved, legal action will be taken including eviction of the building under construction," he assured.