Sand business continues illegally occupying Paturia ferry terminal

Passengers on the Paturia-Daulatdia ferry route, one of the most vital waterways connecting 21 districts in the southwestern region of Bangladesh, continue to suffer due to illegal occupation of the ferry terminal on the Paturia side by influential local sand traders.

In 2002, the ferry terminal was relocated from Aricha to Paturia to enhance travel facilities for the region's residents. The ferry terminal was constructed at five points in Paturia to handle the growing number of vehicles.

However, points No. 1 and 2 of the terminal have since fallen under the control of powerful sand traders. Despite years of complaints, the two points remain occupied, resulting in persistent disruptions to ferry operations and severe public inconvenience.

During a recent visit, large piles of sand were seen occupying the entire points 1 and 2 of the terminal.

A significant portion of the river port has been encroached upon. Throughout the day, truckloads of sand are transported out of the area, and trade activities continue round the clock.

The stockpiled sand and frequent truck movements pose constant risks for passenger vehicles on the adjacent roads.

Locals alleged that certain corrupt officials of the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) and the local administration are in collusion with influential figures such as Arif Kazi and Russel Molla, who have illegally occupied the terminal points and are running the sand business for years.

On June 25, Dr M Sakhawat Hossain, an advisor to the Ministry of Shipping, visited the Paturia terminal and instructed the authorities to clear the encroachment and restore normal ferry and vehicular operations. However, even three weeks after the directive, no visible action has been taken.

Anwarul Haque, a pedestrian, said, "It has become extremely difficult to use this route. Sand carried by the wind blows onto our bodies. Most of the time, sand-carrying trucks dominate this road. There are also other pieces of equipment and trucks parked around the ferry terminal area."

Another local resident, Rahman Sheikh, said, "The shipping adviser gave a seven-day ultimatum to remove the sand business from the area. BIWTA made announcements via mike, but the illegal activities continue."

A local resident requesting anonymity said, "Out of the five terminal points, two are under the control of influential sand traders, and ferry operations there have come to a halt. The sand piled beside the road is causing serious suffering to drivers, passengers, and locals."

In response, sand traders have denied all allegations. Kazi Arifur Rahman claimed, "We are not operating on any government land. We are running our business in privately owned plots. A writ petition is currently ongoing at the High Court regarding the matter."Selim Sheikh, deputy director of Aricha River Port under BIWTA's Ports and Transport Division, said, "Following the adviser's visit, we were directed to remove the sand business from the ferry area. As we do not have magistracy power, we have sent letters to the Deputy Commissioner and the Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) requesting for action. We hope they will take necessary steps soon."

UNO Md Zakir Hossain said, "Since the land at Paturia ferry terminal belongs to BIWTA, we cannot take independent action unless we receive a formal request from them.

If BIWTA seeks cooperation, we are prepared to take legal action through a mobile court. This area is public property, and no one can exploit it for illegal business through influence. Once BIWTA initiates action, the administration will extend full support."

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