Strict ban on entering Sundarbans with flammable materials

The Forest Department has taken unprecedented proactive measures to prevent fires during the dry season in the Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site. A ban has been imposed preventing forest-dependent communities, including fishermen, bawalis and mowals, from entering the forest with bidis, cigarettes or any type of flammable materials.

The Sundarbans division has reported that over the past 23 years, 27 fires during dry seasons have damaged more than 100 acres of forestland. Investigations have revealed that a section of miscreants evade forest guards' surveillance, enter the forest with flammable materials and deliberately set fires. There are allegations that fires are specifically lit to create pathways for fishing in freshwater ponds. Fires have also occurred due to carelessness with torches used by mowals.

In this context, the strict ban has been implemented on the instructions of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change as a precautionary measure. Searches have been intensified at entry points in Sonatala, Uttar Rajapur and Dakshin Rajapur in Sharankhola upazila; Jeudhara and Nishanbaria in Morelganj upazila; and Jeudhara, Chila, Joymoni and Kapilmuni areas in Mongla upazila adjacent to the Sundarbans.

Posters are being displayed, leaflets distributed, discussion meetings held and regular announcements made to raise public awareness. The Forest Department has warned that legal action will be taken against anyone violating the ban. Patrols by forest guards have also been increased.