‘Evict Illegal Encroachments, Save Askar Dighi’

Environmental organization 'Chattogram Bachao Andolan' has formed a human chain demanding the protection of Chattogram’s historic Askar Dighi and an end to pollution of the water body.

The human chain was held at 4 pm today on the banks of Askar Dighi in the city, with participation from local residents, conscious civil society members, environmental activists, and people from various professions.

Environmental leader Mujibur Rahman Chowdhury said that Askar Dighi was once one of the most important water bodies in the area. The pond yielded abundant fish and served as a water source during emergencies, including fires. However, due to years of neglect, illegal encroachment, and pollution, the pond now faces an existential crisis.

Saurav Priyo Pal, former student leader of Chattogram metropolis and president of Chattogram Bachao Andolan, stated that illegal structures have been erected one after another around the pond. Meanwhile, sewerage lines from nearby buildings and establishments are discharging directly into the pond, severely degrading water quality. As a result, the pond’s ecosystem has been devastated, and fish populations are nearly extinct.

Speakers at the human chain further said that attacks on nature must stop. All water bodies in the city, including Askar Dighi, must be protected from land grabbers. No development can be achieved by destroying water bodies. Preserving these water bodies is essential for future generations.

The human chain demanded the immediate eviction of all illegal structures around the pond, the disconnection of all connections dumping waste and garbage into the pond, and the closure of sewerage lines. Protesters also demanded rapid renovation of the pond and the construction of retaining walls and walkways around it.

Manjur Aman Chowdhury, Abu Mohammad Mohsin Chowdhury, Nurul Hossain, Shahed Box, and Syed Safwan Ali spoke at the human chain.