CMP chief declares zero tolerance for illegal structures on Karnaphuli River

Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz has delivered a firm warning against encroachment, declaring, "There will be no compromise when it comes to removing illegal structures from the Karnaphuli River."

He made the statement while addressing the inaugural ceremony of a vibrant Sampan Rally on the Karnaphuli River today (9 May).

The rally, aimed at raising awareness about protecting the country's rivers and preserving traditional riverine culture, took place on the second day of the three-day celebration of the 19th Sampan Festival and Chatgaiya Cultural Fair 1432.

The rally, which commenced at 11am from the Abhay Mitra Ghat of Karnaphuli River, was inaugurated by Md Ali Abbas, senior joint convenor of BNP South District. Hundreds of Sampan Majhi (boatmen) participated by rowing their sampans in a colourful procession.

CMP chief Aziz issued direct instructions to the officers-in-charge of Kotwali, Sadarghat, and Baklia police stations, urging them to swiftly demolish any illegal constructions along the river that are not protected by court orders.

"If there are no legal restrictions, there must not be a single day's delay in clearing encroachments," he emphasised.

Highlighting the economic significance of the Karnaphuli River, he noted that over 90% of the country's imports and exports depend on this vital waterway.

The commissioner called upon local leaders and sampan boatmen to take active roles in protecting the river, adding, "When you take responsibility, others will be inspired to refrain from polluting and occupying the river."

He praised the rally as a unique and inspirational form of social activism, saying, "This is a new experience for me — a truly motivating public movement."

In his inaugural address, Ali Abbas warned those who had illegally occupied the river during the past authoritarian regimes. "Vacate the river voluntarily and let the Karnaphuli flow in all its glory — otherwise, the people, led by local leadership, will compel you to do so."

Aliur Rahman, chairman of the Chattogram History and Culture Research Centre, said the movement to protect the Karnaphuli and other rivers has played a vital role in preserving the boatmen's profession across various ghats. "This movement will continue until the river is completely freed from illegal occupation."

The event was chaired by SM Peyar Ali, president of the Karnaphuli River Sampan Majhi Kallyan Federation. Other speakers included journalist and chief coordinator of the fair Chowdhury Farid and Sampan Festival Committee Convener Mirza Ismail and Joint Convener Harunur Rashid.