'Stop looting money in the name of protecting Kutubdia'

They also called for rebuilding 16-kilometre-long damaged embankment immediately under the direct supervision of the Armed Force's Engineering Core.

The press conference was organised by the leaders of Save Kutubdia Movement at the National Press Club in the city.

The speakers said crores of taka are allocated every year to protect the island, but influential quarters including ruling BNP leaders grab the money.

They demanded formation of an investigation commission led by a judge and a public hearing after identifying the vested quarters to help stop looting of money.

The speakers said erosion takes place every year at Kutubdia leaving the life of coastal people at stake.

Unplanned shrimp and salt cultivation have also threatened the existence of the Island as these are damaging the sluice gates making the embankments more vulnerable.

Supported by the Coastal Association for Social Transformation (COAST), the press conference was addressed by the members of Save Kutubdia Movement Prof Naziullah, Shamsul Huda Siddiqui, Ismail Kutubi and local correspondent of the Prothom Alo SK Liton Kutubi.

Convenor of the movement ASM Shahriar Chowdhury read out a keynote paper at the conference.