Stop construction of illegal resorts near the Sundarbans

There are countless examples of how far our reckless and corrupt behavior can extend. We have filled rivers and canals, encroached on land, flattened hills, and cleared forests to build whatever we desire. Greed, dishonesty, and severe mismanagement by the state define our character and our governance. As a result, we often ignore the interests of our country, our people, and our environment for personal gain. We reach out to seize any opportunity, failing to recognize that we are harming our own future.

The Sundarbans are not just a natural resource; they are our protector. This mangrove forest shields us from many cyclones. Its biodiversity is also unique in the world, hosting many species of fish and birds that cannot be found anywhere else. It’s best not to even mention the Royal Bengal Tiger. For a long time, we have acted as if we are driving the Royal Bengal Tiger towards extinction. We have built a power plant near the Sundarbans, which has generated much discussion and controversy. Now, another troubling piece of news has emerged: illegal resorts are being constructed near the Sundarbans, putting the biodiversity at risk.

In a news published on Saturday (November 2), it was reported that 23 cottages and resorts have been built very close to the Sundarbans without approval from the Department of Environment. Although labeled as eco-cottages and eco-resorts, these facilities include air conditioning, generators, and sound systems. As a result, water pollution, as well as soil and noise pollution, are increasing around the resorts, threatening the biodiversity of the Sundarbans. Wildlife in the area is fleeing, yet relevant authorities are alleged to be taking no action.

The question arises: why build resorts near the Sundarbans? Many tourists visit the Sundarbans, which is fine; they can enjoy their day of exploration and return to the city in the evening. Why do they need to stay close to the jungle? There are already numerous resorts across Bangladesh. The Shalban in Gazipur has been completely taken over by resorts. Many have also been developed in the Garo Hills of Mymensingh and Sherpur. Currently, many resorts are springing up in remote areas of Sylhet, Srimangal, Khagrachari, and Bandarban. A vast commercial enterprise of resorts has emerged in Bangladesh. While the initiative to promote tourism is good, we must also consider the natural environment.

We cannot run businesses at the expense of nature, especially in a place like the Sundarbans. The Sundarbans is not the same as the Shalban in Gazipur. How can illegal resorts be built in such a sensitive area? Professor Abdullah Harun Chowdhury from the Environmental Science Discipline at Khulna University states that the 10-kilometer radius around the Sundarbans is classified as an "ecologically critical area." Construction in this zone is completely prohibited. This speaks volumes about how blind and corrupt the administration is! Babul Howlader, the Khulna divisional coordinator of the Bangladesh Environmental Movement (BAPA), adds that while the cottages may not be built on forest land, their primary element is still the forest itself.

The Conservator of Forests for the Khulna Circle, Mihir Kumar Dorr, claims that the cottages and resorts are located outside the forest. He stated that it is the responsibility of the Department of Environment to oversee the matter. He also mentioned that a "Sundarbans Eco-Tourism Master Plan" is being developed to bring the cottages and resorts under legal regulation. We demand that legal action be taken promptly against these illegal resorts. The Department of Environment must ensure that not only illegal resorts but also any legal resorts are not established near the Sundarbans. We must protect the Sundarbans at all costs and preserve its extraordinary and unparalleled biodiversity.