Illegal sand mining puts Bakkhali coastal in danger

Bakkhali, a coastal area in West Bengal, is facing serious erosion, with parts of the coastline retreating due to the forces of the sea. In response to the growing erosion, the state government has initiated a project to repair and strengthen the embankment along the shoreline. This embankment is being reinforced to protect local land and infrastructure from further erosion caused by the Bay of Bengal.

The repair work involves the use of sand and silt, which are being extracted from the Bay of Bengal. A contractor involved in the embankment project has been using a loader to collect sand and silt directly from the shoreline. The material extracted is then transported by tractors to the construction site for use in reinforcing the embankment. This activity is ongoing, with several residents and local authorities expressing concerns over its legality and environmental impact.

The extraction of sand and silt from the coastline has raised objections from the local Fraserganj Panchayat. The Panchayat has formally submitted complaints to the Block Development Officer (BDO), the Block Land Revenue Officer (BLRO), and the police, alleging that the extraction is taking place without the necessary permits. The complaints are based on concerns about the potential environmental effects of removing large quantities of sand and silt from the coastal area.

The erosion problem in Bakkhali also affects surrounding areas, including Fraserganj Colony, Lakshmipur, Vijaybati, and other villages along the Bay of Bengal. These areas have already experienced land loss, with some homes and agricultural fields being washed away. The embankment repair project is considered an important measure to protect the coastline and prevent further damage. Local officials have stated that the situation is under review, and the contractor has been contacted to address concerns regarding the sand extraction.