Tree plantation campaign is a must to save Dhaka

Finding someone who doesn't love trees is rare. A stroll through the residential areas of Dhaka, the capital city, reveals the profound love Bangladeshis have for trees. Even on the rooftops, some cultivate gardens, despite the considerable effort it takes to bring soil from afar and nurture sizable plants. The absence of tree lovers is scarce in this concrete jungle.

The question arises: Can trees save Dhaka? When Dhaka's residents are sweltering in intense heat, their minds often turn to trees. Perhaps, if there were more trees, they could mitigate this deadly heat. But where are the trees?

According to a research published in the media last Wednesday (April 24), it's recommended to have trees covering 20% of Dhaka, but currently, they only cover 2%. Primarily due to the rapid reduction of trees and water bodies alongside the proliferation of tall concrete buildings and infrastructure, Dhaka's temperature has risen significantly. Consequently, the discomfort of heat has increased.

The uncontrolled urbanization and destruction of greenery, fields, parks, and water bodies have transformed the capital Dhaka into a scorching furnace.

The question arises: Why are the number of trees decreasing in Dhaka? Why are the canals and water bodies diminishing? The answer is not unknown to anyone. To cope with the pressure of a large population, open spaces in Dhaka are disappearing rapidly. Even those who own houses on 10 Katha of land are unwilling to spare two square feet for planting trees. Many encroach upon government roads or extend the boundaries of their houses, yet they lack the mentality to plant trees. Their love for trees is confined to balconies or rooftops.

Not only is this situation prevalent among the general population, but the government also seems indifferent to tree plantation. In some cases, the government appears eager to cut down trees. Under the guise of beautification, city planners have established various commercial establishments by cutting down trees. According to available information, allegations have been made against the city authorities of Dhaka for prioritizing concrete expansion over tree plantation and covering the entire city with concrete under the pretext of development.

Recently, Dhaka South City Corporation has cut down more than a hundred trees in the name of beautification along the Satmasjid Road.

Not only are trees being cut down, but city authorities seem determined to transform existing parks and grounds into restaurants or commercial establishments. We have witnessed the cutting down of at least fifteen large trees in Suhrawardy Udyan to make way for walkways and food stalls.

Recently, a study revealed that Dhaka's air carries five poisonous gases. Dhaka is one of the most polluted cities in the world. None of these issues will be resolved if the number of trees in Dhaka does not increase. And merely planting hobby trees on rooftops will not yield the desired outcome. The government needs to undertake comprehensive planning. It's time to make decisions; not a single more tree should be cut in Dhaka. Trees are not just beneficial; they are essential friends to both humans and animals. It must be remembered that each tree in Dhaka city is a life center. Therefore, tree plantation campaigns could be the key to saving Dhaka.