Lula river in Bianibazar upazila of Sylhet has turned into a narrow, polluted stream, thanks to mindless encroachment by grabbers.

Environmentalists and members of civil society expressed their grave concern over rhe situation while visiting the area on Monday. They urged the government to conduct sustainable drives to ensure an end to illegal grabbing and pollution of the river, whose existence is under threat.

Lula river is an example of how reckless encroachment on rivers can lead to virtual death of a river, they said.

Akther Hosain, 85, of Methiura area of the upazila said, during his childhood, Lula river was about 180 feet to 200 feet wide and 25 feet to 40 feet deep, but it is now only 40 feet to 100 feet wide.

Elderly people of the area said several canals that once connected the river with most of the areas are now extinct.

General Secretary of Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon, Sylhet chapter, Abdul Karim Kim said protecting the rivers from encroachment and pollution is a must to save biodiversity and the life and livelihoods of the people.

He said farmers in the nearby villages have abandoned paddy farming and switched to vegetable cultivation due to irrigation problems, but cultivation is hampered in the dry season also due to lack of water.

Executive Engineer of Water Development Board of Sylhet Sirajul Islam said encroachment on the banks of Lula river has led to alarming decline in its navigability, disrupting smooth communication.