Be strict in protecting top soil

FE Team | Published: January 08, 2026 21:18:58

The fertile topsoil of Bangladesh is the backbone of its agriculture-based economy and a vital resource for sustainable crop production. This thin yet invaluable layer contains essential nutrients, retains moisture and supports soil organisms that ensure healthy yields for millions of farmers across the country.
Regrettably, in many regions, topsoil is being illegally removed from farmlands and used for brick kilns and land filling. As a result, once-productive agricultural land is being degraded and rendered unfit for cultivation. This practice not only harms farmers' livelihoods but also poses a serious threat to long-term food security.
It is important to note that existing laws clearly prohibit such activities. The Environment Conservation Act, 1995, and the Brick Kilns Control Act, 2013 make the removal of soil from agricultural land a punishable offence. Despite these legal safeguards, the destruction of topsoil continues openly, often due to weak enforcement and, in some cases, the influence of powerful coteries.
If this trend is not stopped immediately, it will endanger national food security and contribute to rising prices of agricultural products. The government must therefore take firm action against offenders, strengthen local-level monitoring, and raise public awareness about the importance of preserving topsoil.
Protecting topsoil today is essential for safeguarding our agriculture, environment, and future generations and ensuring sustainable national development and stability.
Muhammad Shafayat Hussain
Student
Kushtia Government College
kobishafayat@gmail.com