Call to preserve jhoubon from the clutch of govt officials

The most captivating aspect of the beach is the gentle sway of the wind, but appreciating such scenery requires more than just visual enjoyment. Tamarisk trees (Jhoubon) plays a crucial role in soil retention along the shore. Historically, the Cox's Bazar seashore was adorned with a lush collection of jhoubon, but much of this vital marine vegetation is now disappearing. Particularly from Kalatali to Inani Beach, the sight of the sea has become increasingly rare. While natural erosion has contributed to this loss, a significant portion has been attributed to human activities. Unplanned construction of hotels and motels has further contributed to the destruction of these areas.

Recent reports have revealed an alarming situation involving the destruction of jhouban, a critical coastal protective area in Teknaf, Cox's Bazar. According to news published last Thursday, September 5, jhouban is being ravaged by local timber traders in collusion with government officials. Over the past week, at least 1,000 trees have been felled. The Bangladesh Economic Zone Authority (BEZA) is developing the Sabrang Tourism Park in Teknaf, which spans approximately 1,100 acres and includes a four-and-a-half-kilometer brick road extending from the beach to Shahpari Island. The ongoing deforestation threatens the ecological balance and stability of the region, highlighting the need for urgent intervention and protection of these vital coastal areas.

In this scenic jhoubon, trees are being freely felled at five to six different locations. The widespread deforestation is causing significant damage to infrastructure, with roads rapidly deteriorating due to the impact of sea waves. Locals report that the brush has been extensively removed from the beach over the past few days, with estimates suggesting that close to a thousand trees have been cut down. This destruction is being carried out by local timber business groups in collusion with forest department officials and unscrupulous staff from the Sabrang Tourist Park.

Along the Teknaf-Shahpari Island road, more than a thousand trees have been felled at several key points, including Zero Point, Kata Bania, and Kachubania. The felled trees are often left in disarray, with visible stumps and roots protruding from the sand. Many of these trees show clear signs of being cut with saws and chisels. Notably, several logging mills, including M/s Mostak Saw-Mill & Steel-1 in Asharbania, Mamun Saw-Mill near Sabrang Bazar, and M/s SN Timber & Saw-Mill at the head of Sabrang Road, are involved in processing this timber. The widespread availability of cut trees has even led to them being seen in private homes.

While the government has changed, issues of irregularities and corruption persist. It is both disheartening and alarming when those entrusted with protection become perpetrators of destruction. The urgent question is: who will safeguard these coastal areas if those meant to protect them are complicit in their ruin?

We call on the relevant authorities to address this situation with utmost urgency. The continued devastation of jhoubon poses a severe threat to coastal residents, leaving them vulnerable to cyclones and causing significant damage to the plains due to erosion from the sea. Immediate action is needed to halt these destructive activities and bring those responsible to justice. Protecting these vital coastal ecosystems is essential for the safety and well-being of the local communities.