CHATTOGRAM, May 9, 2025 (BSS) – Chattogram Metropolitan Police (CMP) Commissioner Hasib Aziz issued stern warning against encroachment on the Karnaphuli river, saying that no compromise will be made in the case of removing illegal structures. 
 
"There will be no compromise when it comes to removing illegal structures from the Karnaphuli River," he said while speaking at the inaugural ceremony of a vibrant Sampan Rally on the Karnaphuli River this morning. 

The rally, aimed at raising awareness about protecting the country's rivers and preserving traditional river culture, took place on the second day of the three-day celebration of the 19th Sampan Festival and Chatgaiya Cultural Fair 1432. 

The rally that started at 11am from the Abhay Mitra Ghat of Karnaphuli River, was inaugurated by Md Ali Abbas, senior joint convenor of BNP South District. Hundreds of Sampan Majhis (boatmen) participated by rowing their sampans in a colourful procession.

CMP Commissioner Aziz directly instructed the officers-in-charge of Kotwali, Sadarghat, and Baklia police stations to quickly demolish any illegal constructions along the river that are not protected by court orders.

Highlighting the economic significance of the Karnaphuli River, he mentioned that over 90% of the country's imports and exports depend on this vital waterway.

The commissioner urged the local leaders and sampan boatmen to play active roles in protecting the river.

Ali Abbas warned those who had illegally occupied the river during the past authoritarian regime.

He urged illegal occupants to vacate the river voluntarily and let the Karnaphuli flow in all its glory.

“Otherwise, the people, led by local leadership, will compel you to do so,” he added.  

SM Peyar Ali, president of the Karnaphuli River Sampan Majhi Kallyan Federation presided over the function while leaders of Sampan Festival Committee and social elites, among others, spoke at the function.