Srinagar (Munshiganj) Correspondent

Allegations have found regarding the encroachment of government canal land in Jagannath Pattri, Ward No. 3 of Bhagyakul Union under Srinagar Upazila. In the area known as Uttar Kamargaon, permanent structures are being constructed on the canal.

The allegations is against Mahbub Sheikh, son of Md. Razzak Sheikh.

Previously, Mahbub Sheikh allegedly sold trees from the canal banks, according to local residents. Opposite his multi-storied building, which is adjacent to a paved road, RCC pillars and brick walls have been erected on the canal land. Several construction workers were seen working on-site. One worker, Md. Zainal, stated that Mahbub Sheikh had assigned them the work but was not at home at the time.

It was also observed that various parts of the important canal have been occupied by different individuals. Numerous toilet tanks have been constructed along the canal, severely obstructing its natural flow. Concerned residents claim that due to encroachment and other issues, water drainage has been nearly blocked. Even during the rainy season, floodwater does not drain properly, leading to severe waterlogging in the area.

Affected residents are demanding the canal be freed from encroachment. Attempts were made to contact local UP member Ratan Kumar Saha via mobile phone, but he did not respond. When asked, Mahbub Sheikh admitted to selling two trees from the canal bank, claiming he had planted them himself. Regarding the canal land encroachment, he justified the construction by stating it was to prevent road erosion.

Efforts to contact the Bhagyakul Union Assistant Land Officer for a statement were also unsuccessful, as he did not answer his phone.