Sunamganj, Jan. 22 -- Fertile farmlands of 'Gaillar Haor' in Shantiganj upazila of Sunamganj district has been facing severe degradation as an influential syndicate continues large-scale illegal extraction of topsoil, posing a serious threat to local agriculture and rural infrastructure.

The upper fertile layer of cropland, commonly known as topsoil, in Alampur village under Purba Pagla Union, is being indiscriminately removed using excavators, according to local people.

The soil is reportedly being used to fill private homesteads and roads, while the ongoing operation has disrupted both agricultural productivity and daily life.

During a recent visit to the area, this UNB correspondent observed multiple excavators digging deep pits acr...