Jaflong: A total of 50 illegal sand-extracting lister machines along with four bulkheads and related equipment including machinery, batteries, and other materials were destroyed during a joint operation in the ecologically sensitive Jaflong area under Gowainghat upazila. The operation was spearheaded by Gowainghat Upazila Nirbahi Officer Ratan Kumar Adhikari, with Executive Magistrate Masud Rana present at the scene.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Department of Environment, Forest Department, Police, and Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB) provided overall support throughout the drive. The joint operation was aimed at curbing the unlawful extraction activities that have been threatening the ecological balance of the region.
Gowainghat UNO Ratan Kumar Adhikari stated, "A group had been unlawfully extracting sand and stones from this area. Acting on secret information, we carried out a coordinated operation to dismantle the equipment used in these illegal activities." He further emphasized that regular operations will be conducted against illegal sand and stone extractors to ensure the protection of the environment in Jaflong.