The Laksam Upazila administration in Cumilla has taken decisive action against the illegal infilling of a century-old pond. Following a mobile court raid conducted under the cover of darkness, the authorities confiscated the soil used for the reclamation and sold it via a public auction on Monday afternoon. This intervention followed reports that a significant portion of the historic water body had been destroyed by an influential local circle.
Table of Contents
Background and Incident
The pond, spanning 1.06 acres, is situated in the Pashchimgaon area along the Laksam-Shriang road. Known locally as Jorpukur because it consists of two adjacent ponds, the site has served as a vital water source and a natural drainage system for the community for over a hundred years.
According to local residents and administrative sources, an influential group had been clandestinely filling the pond with sand and soil for several days. These activities typically occurred late at night to evade detection. By the time the administration intervened, approximately two-thirds of the pond had already been filled, threatening the ecological balance and the water security of the neighbourhood.
Administrative Response and Auction
Upon receiving a tip-off, the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO), Nargis Sultana, led a mobile court raid on Sunday evening. Although the perpetrators had fled the scene by the time officials arrived, the physical evidence of the illegal infilling was undeniable. The UNO immediately ordered the seizure of an estimated 414,360 cubic feet of sand and soil.
The public auction took place at noon on Monday, overseen by several high-ranking officials. Four bidders participated in the process. The highest bid was placed by Mizanur Rahman, who purchased the seized materials for £274,000 (BDT).
Table: Key Details of the Incident and Auction
| Feature | Details |
| Location | Pashchimgaon, Laksam-Shriang Road, Cumilla |
| Pond Name | Jorpukur (Century-old) |
| Total Area | 1.06 Acres |
| Extent of Damage | Approximately two-thirds infilled |
| Seized Material | 414,360 Cubic Feet of Sand/Soil |
| Auction Sale Price | 274,000 BDT |
| Auction Winner | Mizanur Rahman |
Official Statements and Legal Action
Milan Chakma, the Assistant Commissioner (Land) and Executive Magistrate, confirmed that the auction proceeds would be deposited into the government treasury. He stated that a formal work order would be issued to ensure the buyer removes the soil and sand promptly, thereby restoring the pond’s capacity.
“We conducted the raid immediately upon receiving the news as two-thirds of the pond had already been buried. We will soon serve notices to the owners of the pond. After reviewing their explanations, further legal action will be pursued against those responsible,” said Mr Chakma.
UNO Nargis Sultana reiterated the government’s commitment to environmental preservation, noting that there are strict directives against the infilling of ponds, ditches, and wetlands. She emphasised that such administrative operations would continue to protect public interests and ecological stability.
Community Impact
The local community has expressed both relief and anger. Residents noted that the pond is essential for preventing waterlogging in the area and provides water for daily household chores. Shamsul Alam, a local resident aged over sixty, remarked that the pond had been a landmark since the time of his ancestors. Another resident, Manik Mia, highlighted the disturbance caused by the heavy machinery used during the night, expressing hope that the pond would be fully restored to its original state.