Illegal sand extraction from different parts of Maheshkhali upazila in Cox’s Bazar has intensified during the rainy season, raising concerns over environmental damage, revenue losses, and the island’s long-term sustainability.
Locals allege that powerful groups are extracting sand from hills, canals, and other areas and selling it through dump trucks under the cover of darkness. They claim thousands of truckloads of sand and soil are being sold daily from several locations, including Hoanak, Bara Maheshkhali, Kalarmarchhara, Shaplapur and other unions.
According to residents, each dump truck of sand is being sold for Tk1,500 to Tk5,000, allowing illegal traders to make large profits while the government loses potential revenue. They also fear that uncontrolled extraction is damaging the island’s ecosystem, increasing the risk of erosion, and threatening homes and infrastructure.
Environmental activists said Maheshkhali, the country’s only hilly island, is facing serious risks as hill-cutting during the rainy season causes large amounts of sand to flow down and be collected for illegal trade. They urged authorities to take strict action against those involved.
Locals also suggested that naturally accumulated sand could be brought under government auction if properly managed, which would help generate revenue while protecting the environment.
The upazila administration said previous drives had been conducted against illegal sand extraction. Maheshkhali Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Imran Mahmud Dalim said illegal sand trading increases during rainfall and authorities are investigating those involved to take legal action.
