Sadapathor in Sylhet, once a beautiful natural tourist spot, has been severely damaged due to unchecked looting over the past year. The once white stone beds have been stolen or dug out, turning the area into a barren desert-like land. Locals and environmentalists warn of the huge loss in natural resources and tourism potential.
Sadapathor: A Popular Natural Tourist Spot in Sylhet
Sadapathor is one of the most famous tourist destinations in Sylhet, located in the Volaganj area. It attracts many visitors because of its unique natural white stones, which were formed by mountain floods depositing them at the mouth of the Dholai River in 2017. This natural wonder had not seen stone deposits since 1990, making Sadapathor a rare sight and a protected area under local administration.
Unchecked Looting Over the Past Year
Since August 5 last year, Sadapathor has been facing continuous and intense looting. Almost all the white stones have been stolen, and now stones are being dug out by creating holes. Locals and environmental activists report that where once there were vast white stone beds, now only sandy deserts remain.
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Huge Loss in Stone and Money
According to environmental workers and local tourism business owners, about 15 million cubic feet of white stones have been looted from the area in just one year. They estimate the market value of the stolen stones at over 20 billion Bangladeshi Taka (approximately 200 crore Taka).
The History and Significance of Sadapathor
The stones, locally called ‘Dholasona,’ were naturally deposited by mountain floods in 2017 over an area of about five acres. After 27 years without stone deposits, the reappearance brought the area recognition as a natural tourist center. Since then, local administration and union councils have been guarding the area to preserve its beauty and tourist appeal.
Environmental and Tourism Impact
Locals fear that the ongoing illegal extraction will permanently destroy Sadapathor, damaging both the environment and local tourism. The area is at risk of turning into a barren desert without intervention.
Key Quote in Bangla and English
“আগে যত দূর চোখ যেত, দেখা যেত সাদা পাথরের বিছানা কিন্তু সেখানে এখন ধু-ধু বালুচর।”
English:
“Before, as far as the eye could see, there were beds of white stones, but now there is only sandy desert.”
Source: Jamuna TV
