Illegal structures obstruct Basia River

Many structures are being constructed illegally on the banks of Basia River at Biswnath of the district. Nearly one hundred illegal structures have already been built on both sides of the port.. The illegal structures also prevent fishing trawlers from taking shelter in the river during a storm. The river, about 20 kilometers long, is gradually being filled up by encroachers to build various illegal structures. While the local administration has served notice to owners of illegal structures, the workcontinues unabated.
During a visit to the spot, our correspondent saw hundreds of illegal structures on both sides of the river near Lalabazar-Bishonath Road.
Talking to locals, it was learnt that locals Abdul Barek Molla, Abul Hossain Kazi, Mst. Fatema Begum and many others have built illegal structures on the river bank by filling land and encroaching into the river.
Locals said that the administration sometimes stops these illegal activities and the building of structures remain suspended for a brief period. But soon, these resume in full swing.
Crimes on the rise
People in the district have become worried over a sharp increase in incidents murder including those of political nature, robberies and hijacking in the district. At least 5 people were murdered and about 15 robberies were committed during the last 15 days in the district. Data received from different police stations in Sylhet district shows that of the 5killings,. In a number of cases, people were either killed or were found dead after being picked up by unidentified men.
When asked about the sharp rise in murder and other crimes in the district, Assistant Superintendent of Police (Sylhet Circle) claimed that most of the murders took place over land disputes between rivals or over drug trade. He also said that just before the 10th parliamentary election, many notorious criminals managed to secure bails from courts and resumed criminal activities in the district.
Sylhet police OC said these three were wanted for robbery, extortion and murder. He also denied any police involvement in the murders.