20 government palm trees uprooted in Ullapara in the name of road repair

At least 20 palm trees, planted under a government initiative to prevent lightning strikes, have been uprooted in Ullapara upazila, Sirajganj, sparking strong local reactions. Residents have alleged that the trees were removed in the name of road repair work, contradicting environmental and disaster risk reduction efforts.

The incident occurred in the Koyra Khamarpara and Horganti areas, where the trees had been planted about 12 years ago along a 2.5-kilometre road. The trees were part of a Ministry of Relief and Disaster Management programme to reduce lightning risks.

According to local sources, the trees were uprooted during road repair work under a development project of the Koyra Union Parishad. There are also allegations that the trees were removed to facilitate the collection of soil from adjacent agricultural land.

Local residents have expressed anger over the incident, stating that the trees were suddenly removed despite their environmental benefits.

A local resident said, "The government planted these trees to protect us from lightning strikes. Now they are being uprooted."

The president of the project implementation committee and local UP member, Amirul Islam, claimed he was unaware of the tree removal.

A local representative involved in supervising the work claimed the trees were not permanently removed; they were temporarily relocated for work convenience and would be replanted.

However, the local administration has not yet provided an official explanation.

Ullapara Upazila Forest Officer said government permission is mandatory for cutting government trees. He noted that palm trees planted under government initiatives have significant environmental importance, and such removal could be legally questionable.

He further said the matter would be investigated and necessary action taken.

Environmental experts consider palm trees highly effective in preventing lightning strikes. Removing such trees could increase long-term risks for local communities.

Residents have demanded a swift investigation and identification of those responsible. The administration has said that upon receiving complaints, the matter will be examined and legal action taken.