Committed to PEOPLE'S RIGHT TO KNOW Vol. 4 Num 175 Wed. November 19, 2003       Star Chittagong Dying Karnaphuli The river Karnaphuli is gradually dying due to illegal encroachment and massive pollution. Thousands of tons of garbage and solid wastes find their way into the Karnaphuli through some 22 canals and drains of the city. With Chittagong Water and Sewerage Authority (WASA) yet to develop any sewer system in the city, around 400 tons of wastes are simply dumped in the river. Besides, there are some 720 industrial units along the river at Chittagong and Chandroghona. Of them, 217 units have been identified as polluters releasing harmful chemical wastes. On the other hand, illegal encroachments and unplanned construction of installations are causing serious siltation of the river. Huge piles of logs and bamboos cause deposition of mud at different points of the river and the outlet of Chaktai canal, the backbone of drainage system of the city, and thereby raise the river bed. All these pose a threat to the Karnaphuli, the economic lifeline of the port city, and cause a serious health hazards to the people living along the river. Chittagong Port Authority (CPA), responsible for taking care of the river near port channel, has been conducting massive eviction drives. The Mercantile Marine Department also awards penalties to the polluters. But their efforts seem to go in vain. Environment conscious people want a comprehensive plan and coordinated efforts by the authorities concerned to save the river. PHOTO: Zobaer Hossain Sikder