Sunamganj DC inspects breached Utharia dam, warns of legal action

Sunamganj Deputy Commissioner (DC) Dr. Mohammad Ilias Mia inspected the Utharia crop protection dam in Shantiganj Upazila on Wednesday, following reports that local farmers had intentionally breached the structure.

Farmers from Astma village allegedly cut the dam in Deran Haor to drain stagnant water. The DC arrived at the site around 12:30 PM to assess the damage and the resulting risk to regional crops.

Accompanying the DC were Sunamganj Water Development Board (WDB) Engineer Mohammad Shamsuddoha, Shantiganj Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Mohammad Shahjahan, Upazila Agriculture Officer Md. Ahsan Habib, and Shantiganj Police OC Md. Aliullah.

Speaking to journalists, Dr. Mohammad Ilias Mia termed the unauthorized breaching of the dam a criminal act. "By cutting the dam without informing the administration, they have weakened the entire structure. This puts the Haor at high risk of early flooding," he stated.

The DC warned that those responsible would be identified and face legal action if an early flood causes crop loss due to the breach. He instructed the WDB and local administration to repair the damaged section within 2–3 days.

Addressing the long-term waterlogging issue, the DC noted, "A sluice gate will be planned for Utharia or a suitable nearby location to ensure proper drainage. We want to ensure farmers can manage water levels without resorting to such risky measures in the future."