Sampan Baich: A colourful call to protect Karnaphuli
Mohammad Yusuf Majhi of Ichanagar Sadarghat Sampan Samity emerged as the champion of the Sampan race
Chattogram hosted a unique Sampan Baich (boat race) and cultural fair to raise awareness about the critical need to protect the Karnaphuli River, a vital waterway in the port city suffering from encroachment and pollution.
The 19th Sampan Baich, a joint initiative of the Chattogram History and Culture Research Center and the Karnaphuli River Sampan Majhi Welfare Association Federation, commenced at 5:30pm from Sadarghat today (11 May) and concluded at Brijghat, featuring the participation of approximately 11 sampans (boats).
Mohammad Yusuf Majhi of Ichanagar Sadarghat Sampan Samity emerged as the champion of the Sampan race and cultural fair, with Md Roni securing second place and Tarek Mistri finishing third.
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Addressing the event as the chief guest, Chattogram City Corporation Mayor Dr Shahadat Hossain said, "Pollution of the Karnaphuli will lead to water scarcity for one crore people. While cities globally are developed around rivers, Karnaphuli is fundamental to Chattogram existence. The survival of the city depends on the preservation of the Karnaphuli from pollution and encroachment, which is our collective responsibility."
The event was presided over by Chattogram South District BNP Joint Convener Md Ali Abbas, with its Senior Convener Md Idris Mia inaugurating the programme.
Professor Mozammel Haque, president of the Sampan race and cultural fair celebration, and Professor Mahmudul Hasan Chowdhury, organising secretary of Bangladesh Jamaat-e-Islami Chattogram South District unit were present among others.
