Administration silent on theft of more than 50 trees from LGED road in Madhabpur
Liton Pathan, Madhabpur ( Habiganj)
Miscreants have cut down more than fifty valuable Akashmoni trees on both sides of the LGED road in Bahra Union of Madhabpur Upazila of Habiganj.
In the last few months, government trees worth at least Tk 20 to 25 lakh have been cut down and smuggled. It has been seen on the spot that an organized gang of thieves has recently cut down about 40 to 50 large Akashmoni trees on both sides of the road from the intersection of Ghilatoli Char Road in Bahra Union No. 3 to Chengar Bazar via Khanka Sharif. Locals allege that the trees are being cut down and smuggled using electric machines in the dark of night.
Local rural doctor Abdul Karim said, "Every night, 4-5 government trees are being smuggled. Looting state resources in this way will destroy the balance of the environment. As there are no trees along the roads, it has become difficult for pedestrians to walk in the hot sun."
Local Bahra Union Parishad panel chairman Mosharraf Hossain said, "We have collected the names and addresses of those who are stealing valuable trees on LGED road and sent them to the UNO..
Even though about 10 days have passed since the names were sent, no case or administrative action has been taken. The Union Parishad will never join hands with a gang of thieves."
We have also formally filed a complaint as plaintiffs.
In this regard, Madhabpur Upazila Engineer Rezaun Nabi said, "I came to know about the matter through you. We will inform the police station (OC) immediately." UNO Md. Zahid Bin Kasem said, "We are investigating the cutting of trees along the road. Action has already been taken in another union in such an incident. The incident in Bahra Union will also be investigated and necessary action will be taken."
Madhabpur Police Station OC Mohammad Shahid-ullah said, "We are ready if the Forest Department asks for our cooperation. Even then, the matter will be investigated."
