Historic Askar Dighi Pond in Chittagong Faces Encroachment and Pollution

The historic Askar Dighi pond in Chittagong's Jamal Khan area, dating back approximately 350 years, is suffering from severe encroachment and pollution. Once a vital water source for the city, the pond is now covered in water hyacinths and choked with plastic, polythene, and household waste, rendering its water unusable. Environmentalists fear that without proper conservation efforts, this significant historical reservoir, named after Mughal ruler Askar Khan, could lose its existence. Residents are forced to rely on piped water due to the pond's unusable state. The encroachment includes the construction of houses along its banks, further diminishing its original form and function. The situation highlights a critical need for heritage preservation and environmental management.

This reports on the degradation of a historic landmark, the Askar Dighi pond, due to encroachment and pollution, highlighting the urgent need for conservation.