Habiganj district administration has achieved a record revenue collection of Tk 26.97 crore from sand quarry leases in the current Bangla year (1432), marking the highest haul in 17 years. This year’s collection more than doubled the Tk 11.5 crore earned last year, a result officials credit to improved administrative control, enhanced transparency in tender management, and a sharp decline in political and syndicate interference. Habiganj boasts 31 identified sand quarries, including seven general quarries and 24 silica sand sites. Of these, lease agreements were finalized earlier this year for four general quarries: Narpati and Ghargaon sections along the Khowai River, as well as Pakuria, Rajarbazar, and Mantala. Notably, the Rajarbazar quarry alone generated Tk 15.42 crore, nearly four times its performance last year (Tk 4.57 crore). Pakuria contributed Tk 8 crore, rising from Tk 4.09 crore, while Narpati and Mantala collected Tk 3.15 crore and Tk 39.98 lakh, respectively. However, in the interest of environmental preservation and preventing riverbank erosion, three general quarries—Habiganj Sadar, Deor Gach in Chunarughat, and the Ubahata section of the Khowai River—were deliberately excluded from leasing this year. In particular, Deor Gach received no tender applications last year either. Activists and civil society representatives, including Chowdhury Misbaul Bari Liton of Sushashoner Jonno Nagorik (Sujan), praised the move. He noted that “the removal of political pressure enabled broader participation in the bidding process. In previous years, the process was dominated by politically connected groups. This time, others felt safe to compete”. Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) of Habiganj, Naima Khandaker, highlighted the unprecedented number of tenders this year. “This is the highest number of tenders sold in 17 years,” she said, adding that more quarries are expected to be leased in the coming months.. The surge in revenue not only strengthens the district’s financial position but also bolsters development budgets for crucial infrastructure and public services. The influx of funds is expected to support local road maintenance, health services, and educational initiatives. Experts warn that striking the right balance between economic opportunities and ecological responsibility is essential. While the administration’s decision to exclude vulnerable quarries underscores its environmental commitment, sustained oversight will be necessary to ensure river health and prevent over-extraction. With clear improvements in governance and a proactive stewardship approach, Habiganj’s sand quarry sector demonstrates how transparent processes can yield both financial rewards and ecological protections. As leasing progresses and environmental monitoring continues, the district sets a benchmark for sustainable resource management one that could be replicated across Bangladesh’s riverine regions.
