Gofran Palash, Kalapara (Patuakhali)

The traditional, century-old government pond located in the Mohipur fish port of Kalapara upazila in Patuakhali has been  encroached it is being  by influential individuals. It is currently facing an existential crisis.

At one time, the local people used the pond water for bathing and cooking. Fishermen used to fill drums with water from this pond for their needs before going on sea voyages. That very pond has now turned into a garbage dump. Local influential quarters have occupied it. Even though a written appeal along with the resolution of the then Mohipur Sadar Union Chairman's council was sent to the District Commissioner on July 26, 2020, no action has been taken by the administration.Sources report that numerous shops and houses have now been built around the pond. Continuous dumping of waste has filled up the pond. The stench of garbage is spreading. This has led to environmental pollution. Once, the pond water was essential for the people of Mohipur as well as fishermen from different regions for bathing and daily needs. Additionally, another government pond in Kalibari and the Hindu neighborhood areas has also lost its existence due to encroachment and pollution.Local resident Md. Alamgir said, "This pond was excavated a hundred years ago. It was the only government pond in the Mohipur market and was once the main source of drinking water for the locals. It is not just a reservoir; it is a symbol of Mohipur’s heritage and culture. Now it is being filled up day by day by encroachers."Fisherman Abdul Jalil said, "This pond used to be a part of our lifes. We once used to bathe here and collect cooking water before going to the sea for fishing. Now, we struggle to get clean water. The administration should act quickly."The locals demand that the pond be re-excavated under the supervision of the administration to ensure access to clean drinking water.

Upazila Assistant Commissioner (Land) Yasin Sadek said, "The upazila administration can arrange excavation through a project. I will inform the higher authorities about the matter."Kalapara UNO Md. Robiul Islam said, "An initiative will be taken to adopt a project in coordination with the concerned departments."