Staff Reporter
Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Advisor to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and the Ministry of Water Resources, has directed all relevant law enforcement and stakeholder agencies to work in a coordinated manner to keep the Sundarbans free from all forms of criminal activities. She emphasized that isolated or uncoordinated efforts are not sufficient to protect this unique ecosystem.

The Environment Advisor gave these remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a virtual stakeholder consultation on the challenges and prospects of Sundarbans management, held Wednesday evening. Speaking from her residence, she highlighted the urgent need for integrated action involving the Forest Department, Navy, RAB, Coast Guard, BGB, Police, and local community patrol groups.

During the meeting, ongoing projects, existing problems, and future strategies concerning the Sundarbans were discussed in detail.

Advisor Rizwana Hasan identified key challenges including threats to local livelihoods, forest banditry, deer poaching, plastic pollution, forest fires, toxic fishing practices, illegal entry, and unauthorized vehicle movement. She called for a comprehensive and collaborative action plan to address these issues.

The Sundarbans is not just a forest — it is a part of our life. Its survival ensures the safety of our environment, biodiversity, and the lives of coastal communities,” she remarked.

She also mentioned that several ongoing initiatives such as the Tiger Response Team, Dolphin Team, and regular patrol units are active in protecting the forest. She urged the immediate finalization of the Eco-Tourism Guideline and the Sundarbans Visit Policy to ensure sustainable tourism practices.

Also speaking at the event were Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Secretary of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, and Chief Conservator of Forests Md. Amir Hossain Chowdhury. A keynote presentation was delivered by Md. Imran Ahmed, Conservator of Forests, Khulna region.

The event also featured remarks from the Divisional Commissioner of Khulna, and representatives from RAB, Coast Guard, Bangladesh Navy, local district administration, police, Department of Environment, Water Development Board, and Fire Service and Civil Defence.