Dhaka, April 9 -- An investigation committee has been formed to probe the alleged disappearance of several hills and dunes in Khagrachari district as a result of rampant hill-cutting, with a view to also suggest ways to stop this illegal practise, State Minister for Environment Shaikh Faridul Islam said Thursday.

The committee, directed to submit its report within seven working days, was appointed following a news report in a vernacular daily that 8 hills in Khagrachari district have 'vanished' in just three months. The State Minister instructed the Chattogram Divisional Commissioner to lead the initiative, said a PID handout.

"If the investigation reveals involvement of the Department of Environment or any government official, strict a...