Narsunda River: Illegal Structures Persist Despite Tk 114cr Protection Project
Despite a Tk 114 crore project to restore and develop the Narsunda River in Kishoreganj, allegations have emerged that a multi-storey building is being constructed within the river’s boundary near the Sholakia Eidgah area. The construction is underway beside the Kishoreganj-Karimganj road, near a bridge over the river in the Tarapasha (Boyla) area. Locals claim that part of the building has extended into the river area beyond a boundary marked by the administration. However, the allegation can only be confirmed through official surveys, land records and on-site measurements.
The Narsunda restoration project was launched in 2012 at a cost of about Tk 114 crore. It included river dredging, bridges, walkways and an open stage, with the aim of restoring navigability, improving the environment and reconnecting the city with the river. Local resident and former municipal councillor Abu Naser Hilali Mintu alleged that part of the river had been occupied during construction.
Kishoreganj Municipality Executive Engineer Md Rafiqul Islam said, “Before approving a new building, the municipal surveyor conducts an on-site measurement to determine the boundary. The design is then approved. If someone occupies river land, the municipality has no authority to take action because the river is not under the municipality. The administration and relevant government departments will handle the matter.”
Kishoreganj Sadar Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Kamrul Hasan Maruf said, “The Assistant Commissioner (Land) will be instructed to visit the site and investigate based on official records and measurements. If river land is found to have been occupied, necessary legal action will be taken quickly according to the law.” The findings of the official survey are now awaited. The case has also raised broader questions about river boundary protection, monitoring and maintenance after the costly restoration project.
