UNO bans bulkhead movement in Taltola Canal to prevent erosion and extortion

In a decisive move to protect local residents and infrastructure, Louhajang Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Ms. Farzana Bobby Mitu has ordered law enforcement agencies to strictly halt sand bulkhead movement and illegal extortion in the Baligaon-Dohri-Taltola canal.

The directive was issued during a coordination meeting held at the UNO’s office at 11:00 AM on Monday.

Speakers at the meeting noted that while bulkhead movement had been banned for a significant period, a group of "unscrupulous individuals" recently resumed operations. The heavy wake from these bulkheads is causing riverbank erosion, leading to the collapse of houses on both sides of the canal. Furthermore, allegations surfaced that certain quarters are collecting large sums of money as extortion to allow these vessels to pass.

The meeting also highlighted a critical loophole: the BIWTA toll booth. Speakers argued that as long as the booth collects tolls, bulkhead operators feel entitled to use the waterway. They called for an immediate suspension of toll collection at this specific point to effectively seal the canal.

Following the discussion, UNO Ms. Farzana Bobby Mitu announced an immediate and total ban on bulkhead movement in the canal starting today (Monday).

"No bulkhead will be allowed to enter this canal. We will consult with BIWTA and relevant authorities regarding the toll booth and further long-term measures. Local Union Parishad members have been tasked with monitoring the waterway to ensure compliance," the UNO stated.

The meeting was attended by Assistant Commissioner (Land) Md. Erfanur Rahman, Bikrampur Press Club President Md. Masud Khan, naval police representatives, leaders of the Bulkhead Owners and Workers Associations, and local political figures.