Dulal Mia

The Hijal tree is a familiar sight in the haor (wetland) regions. It is a source of natural beauty, standing resilient in the turbulent waters of the haor. Sometimes solitary, sometimes in rows, these trees enhance the scenic charm of the haor during the monsoon, remaining rooted in water.

Hijal trees grow naturally in the haor region and contribute significantly to its biodiversity. They can withstand floods and extreme droughts, even surviving months submerged underwater. This tree is mostly found in marshy areas and can endure intense summer heat.

The branches of the Hijal tree serve as an excellent refuge for fish. However, due to neglect and administrative indifference, this once-common tree is disappearing. Hijal trees grow in the jungles of the haor, along homesteads, riverbanks, canals, ponds, and wetlands. Its wood is soft, white, smooth, and durable. Since it does not decay in water, it is used to build boats. It is also widely used as firewood.

Hijal flowers bloom in the months of Baishakh and Jyeshtha (April–June). These light pink flowers are visually stunning. They bloom at midnight and fall off in the morning, emitting a sweet, intoxicating fragrance. The Hijal tree serves as a habitat for birds, fish, and other wildlife. During storms, boat travelers often take shelter under the Hijal tree.

Additionally, the roots of the Hijal tree hold the soil firmly, preventing erosion of haor embankments and surrounding areas. During monsoons, it absorbs floodwater and regulates its flow, thus helping to control flooding. It plays a crucial role in preventing soil erosion and protecting embankments.

The Hijal tree is a friend to fishermen and farmers. Farmers find shelter under its shade from the scorching sun. It also protects homes from storm surges and strong waves. In the haor region, its branches are widely used as fish sanctuaries. The tree provides shelter and food for fish, frogs, birds, and other creatures. Its roots serve as breeding grounds for many aquatic species, helping to sustain the ecosystem. The Hijal tree helps conserve water, maintaining the fertility of agricultural land and enabling farmers to grow better crops.

Hijal is a medium-sized evergreen tree, reaching heights of 10 to 15 meters. Its scientific name is Barringtonia acutangula, and in Sanskrit, it is called “Nichul.” The tree has widespread branches and a long lifespan. After flowering, the tree bears fruit, which is bitter and toxic, resembling Haritaki (Chebulic myrobalan). The raw fruit is poisonous, but its dried seeds, when powdered, can cure various stomach ailments. The tree also possesses numerous medicinal properties.

Due to its aesthetic appeal, the Hijal tree has been immortalized in Bengali literature. Many poets have written about its beauty. Jibanananda Das compared its shadow to Bengal’s enchanting landscape:
“Such is the blue shadow of Hijal, Banyan, and Tamal trees—an incomparable beauty of Bengal.”

Kazi Nazrul Islam wrote:
“Through the forest path lined with Hijal trees,
My beloved will come, coloring the earth with her footsteps.”

Renowned folk singer Hemanga Bishwas lamented its disappearance in his song:
“The haor’s water is gone, fresh fish are gone,
No more Hijal trees spreading their branches over the wetlands.”

The once-familiar Hijal tree is vanishing. In the past, it was found abundantly along haor jungles, homestead edges, roadsides, and water bodies. However, in recent years, they have been indiscriminately cut down. Soil is being extracted from haor embankments, leading to the disappearance of natural landforms, and consequently, the destruction of Hijal and Koroch forests.

The tree is invaluable for fish conservation. We must protect it for our own survival. The haor ecosystem depends on trees and fish. Public awareness is crucial, and administrative authorities must take strict action to conserve these trees.

The biodiversity of haor regions is on the brink of destruction. The decline of Hijal and Koroch trees has led to the loss of fish sanctuaries, bird habitats, and aquatic life. Fish populations are dwindling, and migratory birds are no longer seen in abundance. The haor is becoming increasingly vulnerable. Raising public awareness and implementing government-led afforestation programs in the haor region are essential. If such initiatives are taken, nature may regain its former glory. The haor will be restored and protected, with abundant fish and birds. Moreover, the adverse effects of climate change can be mitigated, ensuring a safe breeding ground for freshwater fish.

The Hijal tree is not just a tree; it is the strength of the haor. It is a vital part of the haor’s ecosystem. Without it, soil erosion, the loss of aquatic life, intensified flooding, and climate change impacts will worsen. Therefore, raising awareness and taking collective action to conserve Hijal trees is crucial.

Author: Lecturer, Jawa Bazar Degree College,Chhatak, Sunamganj.
E-mail:dulal4261@gmail.com