Eight social and environmental organizations formed a half-kilometer-long human chain today at Firingi Bazar Ferry Ghat, demanding the immediate demolition of illegal structures along the Karnaphuli River.
Speakers at the rally, held at 11:00 AM, described the Karnaphuli as the "heart of the national economy." They expressed frustration that despite a 2010 High Court ruling identifying 2,181 illegal structures, meaningful eviction has stalled since 2016. Leaders warned of a larger movement if all illegal establishments are not removed within the next two months.
Heroic Freedom Fighter Dr. Mahfuzur Rahman stated, "The river that sustains our country cannot bear these wounds. Chittagong’s MPs must push the government to decontaminate the river, or they will lose public support."
Chowdhury Farid, President of the Chittagong River and Canal Protection Movement, criticized local authorities for allegedly granting new leases for fish markets in defiance of court orders. Meanwhile, General Secretary Aliur Rahman accused the district administration of using delays to allow illegal occupants time to file fresh legal stay orders.
The protest was organized by a coalition including BELA, Bangladesh Environmental Forum, Sristi, United Social Network, and various Boatmen (Sampan Majhi) unions.
