In Lama upazila of Bandarban district, around 10 acres of hilly land have been leveled allegedly to prepare for a new brick kiln. The activity reportedly took place in the Bashkhaillya Jhiri area of Fasiakhali Union under the name of Lokman Hossain, a resident of Satkania. Local resident Md. Osman Gani filed a written complaint with the Department of Environment on Sunday, accusing Lokman Hossain of illegally cutting hills to build the kiln.

According to the complaint, the hill cutting has damaged natural forests, streams, water flow, and biodiversity. Osman Gani claimed that although the land was jointly purchased, it was later flattened through deceit, and a hilly stream was filled in. Locals fear that unregulated hill cutting could increase the risks of landslides, water shortages, and environmental degradation. They have demanded a prompt investigation and legal action against those responsible.

Lokman Hossain denied the allegations, calling them false and motivated by personal disputes. An inspector from the Department of Environment stated that legal measures would be taken if hill cutting is confirmed.