Bangladesh coast guard cracks down on illegal sand extraction

Over the years, the Bangladesh Coast Guard has become a trusted symbol of security for the people living in coastal and riverine areas.

The force remains steadfast in its commitment to safeguarding fishery resources, combating smuggling, preventing theft and robbery on waterways, curbing illegal drug transportation, stopping human trafficking, and providing relief and rescue operations during natural disasters.
Following the deterioration of overall security and law and order after 5 August 2024, illegal sand extraction along riverbanks has surged significantly. Unregulated sand mining by unauthorised traders has severely increased the risk of submerging cropland and residential areas, threatening the livelihoods of communities along the riverbanks. Responding to public outcry and media reports, the Bangladesh Coast Guard has taken decisive action against these unlawful activities.

With authorisation from the Ministry of Home Affairs, the Coast Guard has conducted mobile court operations and joint enforcement drives in critical locations. These include Chandpur, Mohanpur, Shatanol, Kalipur, Munshiganj, and Kabutar Khola near the Meghna River; Koyra, Ghiralal Bazar, Angtihara, Tentultala, and Batiaghata near the Shibsa and Arpangasia rivers in Khulna; Lalmohan, Ilisha, Beduria, Latarchar, Muktijoddha Char, and Golbunia near the Tentulia River in Bhola; and Laukhali and Durghapur near the Laukati River in Patuakhali.
Since 5 August, the Coast Guard has maintained 24-hour patrols and launched extensive clearance operations against illegal dredgers. These efforts have resulted in confiscating 76 sand dredgers, 106 sand-carrying bulkheads, and five excavators. Additionally, 153 individuals involved in the illicit extraction of sand have been apprehended. These rigorous operations have brought unlawful sand mining in the affected riverine regions to near zero.

A notable aspect of these operations has been the dismantling of a network of armed sand dredgers who previously controlled riverine areas with intimidation and violence. The Coast Guard's relentless patrols and enforcement have effectively neutralised these threats, restoring peace and security. As a result, riverbank villages and char areas have been safeguarded from the danger of erosion, and residents have found relief from the terror that once plagued these regions.
The Bangladesh Coast Guard remains unwavering in its mission to ensure the safety and security of coastal and riverine communities. These enforcement operations will continue to protect natural resources and uphold law and order in the country's waterways.