Balurghat, Sept. 25 -- Mahipal Dighi, a historic waterbody in South Dinajpur's Kushmandi block believed to date back to the Pala era, now remains entangled in legal disputes and administrative files. Historians estimate that the pond once covered nearly 100 acres, though only around 65 acres currently hold water due to years of neglect and siltation.
Settlements have gradually developed around the waterbody, while encroachments and accumulated waste have further affected its surroundings. The pond, however, is known never to have completely dried up. There is also no clear record of commercial fish cultivation there from the end of the Pala period till Independence.
In 2010, during the Left Front regime, the Block Fishermen Cooperative Society undertook renovation and started fish cultivation. However, disputes over ownership and fishing rights later emerged after another fishermen's cooperative claimed rights over the waterbody. The dispute eventually reached court, with tensions once turning violent around the pond. While the two sides fought a prolonged legal battle, aquatic weeds and wild creepers spread across large portions of the waterbody.
Local fishermen said the legal complications have also prevented systematic fish cultivation. "The garbage should be removed and the pond renovated, while the legal complications must also be resolved. If the government conducts a transparent tender and allows fish cultivation again, the district administration could earn Rs 7-8 lakh annually and create employment," said fisherman Gedu Haldar.
Mahipal Dighi was once a winter destination for migratory birds and photographers. However, residents said no significant migratory bird presence has been witnessed for the past three years, raising concerns over its declining biodiversity.
Historian Samit Ghosh said: "Renovation of Mahipal Dighi is essential. The administration knew about the problem but remained silent for years."
Published by HT Digital Content Services with permission from Millennium Post.