Protect Social Forestry Trees, Plant Natives: Adviser

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan

She also advocated for planting native tree species, rather than eucalyptus, to preserve ecological balance. "Beneficiaries of social forestry will no longer profit from tree sales but will instead receive an equivalent amount from the Climate Change Trust Fund," she explained, speaking as the chief guest at a views-exchange meeting at Rangpur Circuit House on Sunday.

Rizwana highlighted the need for better coordination between government agencies to address environmental challenges like deforestation, pollution, and water shortages. "Collaborative efforts are crucial to tackle these issues. We must conserve water bodies, restore forests, and control pollution to combat droughts, floods, and river erosion," she stated.

She directed the Department of Environment to crack down on illegal stone crushing operations and brick kilns, while urging the Water Development Board to prioritize efforts to prevent river erosion.

The adviser also suggested increasing the planting of indigenous trees along embankments and involving local communities in these conservation efforts.

Officials from the Forest, Environment, and Water Development departments shared updates on their ongoing work in the Rangpur region, including addressing deforestation, industrial and agricultural pollution, and water flow control issues.