The Water Development Board (WDB) in Comilla’s Titas upazila has reportedly suspended an eviction drive at Asmania Bazar, where land acquired for a flood protection embankment in 1996 was later occupied by shops and houses. The operation, scheduled for June 9, 2026, aimed to remove about 122 illegal structures but was halted without prior notice, sparking local anger and speculation.

Local residents alleged that around 3 million taka was collected to stop the eviction, with claims of 25,000 taka taken per shop, though no credible evidence was found. Narandia Union Parishad chairman and local Awami League president Arifuzzaman Khoka denied any financial dealings, saying the delay was for humanitarian reasons following requests from traders and representatives. WDB executive engineer Md. Rashed Shahriar stated the suspension was temporary and made at the request of local representatives and the UNO, while the UNO denied involvement.

The WDB had earlier issued notices in January 2025 for voluntary removal of illegal structures and marked the sites on June 7. Locals are now demanding a transparent investigation and resumption of the eviction drive.