Topsoil extraction threatens agriculture in Magura

Topsoil, rich in organic matter and nutrients, is vital for agriculture. Yet large volumes of this valuable layer are being excavated from farmlands and diverted to brick kilns, particularly in Magura’s Mohammadpur upazila.

According to local sources, farmers from all eight unions of the upazila are selling topsoil to meet the growing demand of brickfields, with little obstruction.

The extraction intensifies every year from December, coinciding with the peak brick production season.

Agricultural soil is preferred by kiln owners for producing higher-quality bricks. Through intermediaries, soil traders buy topsoil from farmers at low lump-sum rates, often under the pretext of land levelling, and resell it to kiln owners at much higher prices. For nearly four months, from December to March, the practice continues unabated.

Ignoring existing rules, excavators are used to cut soil, which is then transported by trolleys and trucks, damaging rural roads and local infrastructure. An estimated 18 brick kilns are operating in the upazila this season, with fertile cropland serving as their primary source of raw material.

Agricultural experts warn that the removal of topsoil strips land of essential nutrients such as gypsum and zinc and disrupts beneficial microorganisms, leading to declining soil fertility and crop yields. Many farmers, due to a lack of awareness, are unknowingly selling away the productive capacity of their land.

Rabiul Islam Russell, a farmer from Raypasha village, said cutting soil from croplands invites long-term losses and urged greater awareness among farmers.

Mezbahul Islam, owner of Arab Bricks, said they purchase soil through contractors and claimed ignorance about how or where the soil is sourced.

Upazila Agriculture Officer Piyush Roy warned, “Topsoil is the nutritional core of farmland. If it is removed, good yields cannot be expected from that land for at least the next 10 years. This could eventually lead to food shortages.”

Upazila Nirbahi Officer Shahnur Zaman said action is taken whenever reports of topsoil extraction are received, adding, “Protecting arable land requires not only enforcement of the law but, more importantly, raising awareness among farmers and the general public.”