Gazipur Correspondent
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change, and the Ministry of Water Resources, stated that strict measures would be taken to protect forests and the environment. She said, No matter how powerful the illegal occupants are, action will be taken against them. Following August 5, 16 acres of illegally occupied forest land in Gazipur have already been recovered out of a total of 90 acres.

She made these remarks as the chief guest during a discussion meeting on forest and environmental conservation held at the conference room of the Gazipur Deputy Commissioner’s office on Saturday.

The advisor emphasized that the government knows how to counter resistance from forest land occupiers. She announced plans to recover all occupied lands within the next three months and instructed district commissioners to expedite the process of demarcating forest boundaries. She further mentioned that strict actions would also be taken to prevent deforestation and pollution caused by industries. She advised the Department of Environment to thoroughly review all aspects before issuing permits and to include public opinion during the renewal process.

The meeting was presided over by Gazipur District Commissioner Nafisa Arefin and attended by the Superintendent of Police, the Commander of the Army Security Unit, the Commander of 63 BGB, the Secretary of Gazipur City Corporation, officials from the Forest Department and the Department of Environment, government and non-government officials, local representatives, and environmental activists.

Participants discussed local environmental issues, illegal forest occupation, and pollution. The advisor assured prompt action to resolve these problems. She urged both government and private organizations, as well as citizens, to play an active role in protecting the environment.