Photo: Messenger
The Tupamari Bahumukhi Krishi Complex, a multipurpose agriculture complex locally known as ‘Zila Pukur’ in Gorai village under Durgapur union of Ulipur upazila in Kurigram district, situated beside the Kurigram-Chilmari (KC) road, has transformed into a recreation spot in Kurigram.
Zia Pukur is only 8 kilometers from Kurigram district town and is replete with eye-catching beauty, brisk air, and planted social forestry that attracts everyone.
The Ulipur Upazila Central Cooperative Society (UCCS) purchased 25 acres of land in the Tupamari marshland at Gorai village in 1972. The pond was dug on 18.27 acres of land in the fiscal year 1980-1981 under the World Food Program (WFP). After several years of excavation, a variety of plants including fruits, timber, and medicinal plants were planted on the pond's bank. The pond started gaining popularity among people of all ages as a recreation spot from the fiscal year 1985-1986. There is also a small cattle farm on the bank of the pond.
Although the 60 to 80 feet wide pond bank currently lacks picnic shades, visitors and picnic teams enjoy free space under the trees. Typically, picnic parties construct temporary shades to enjoy mental recreation. The spot contains three tube wells and two toilets on the bank, along with two speed boats in the pond for visitors. For picnicking or recreation, the authority has implemented an entry fee of Tk. 10 per person since June 28, 2023. Previously, entrance was free for all.
Five security guards oversee the agriculture complex, while five volunteer employees maintain the entrance in shifts. The complex also includes one office room, one storeroom, three restrooms for guards, one prayer room, and two irrigation pumps.
Tupamari Pond has also contributed to local tourism as people enjoy the natural beauty of the area. Additionally, the revenue generated from selling fish, turtles, and fruits amounts to about Tk. 4-5 lakh per year. It is a popular fishing spot, especially for novice fishermen. Besides being a place for enjoyment, Tupamari Pond also holds ecological importance.
Golam Mostafa, Chairman of UCCS managing committee, has expressed intentions to propose these developments in an upcoming meeting, aiming to elevate the complex's appeal and foster local employment opportunities.
Messenger/Disha
