A tree plantation drive and a seven-day tree fair have been inaugurated in Jhalakathi under the theme, “Beautify the Country with Tree Plantation, Bangladesh First.” The initiative has been organized to highlight the importance of tree plantation in maintaining environmental balance, increasing greenery, and combating the adverse effects of climate change.
The program began on Wednesday morning, August 19, with a colorful rally from in front of the Deputy Commissioner’s Office. The rally paraded through several important roads of the town and ended at the District Shilpakala Academy premises.
Later, a discussion meeting was held at the auditorium of the District Shilpakala Academy. Jhalakathi Deputy Commissioner Md. Momin Uddin inaugurated the tree fair as the chief guest.
Among those present were District Council Administrator Advocate Md. Shahadat Hossain, Civil Surgeon Dr. Mohammad Humayun Kabir, and officials from the Forest Department, Police, Health Department, and various government departments. The program was presided over by Md. Rafiqul Islam, Barisal Divisional Forest Officer of the Social Forestry Department.
Senior officials of the Forest Department, representatives of various government departments, students, environmental activists, and members of the general public also participated in the program.
Speaking at the discussion meeting, the speakers said that environmental balance is gradually being disrupted due to indiscriminate tree cutting. They stressed that there is no alternative to large-scale tree plantation to combat the adverse effects of climate change, reduce the risk of natural disasters, and protect the environment.
They emphasized the need to plant more trees at both individual and social levels alongside government initiatives.
The speakers also said that responsibility does not end with planting trees alone. Regular care and proper conservation must be ensured so that the planted trees can grow properly. In this regard, they called upon individuals, families, educational institutions, and social organizations to come forward.
The tree fair, jointly organized by the Jhalakathi District Administration and the Social Forestry Department, features a total of 10 stalls. Around 400 species of fruit-bearing, forest, and medicinal tree saplings are being displayed and sold at the stalls.
The seven-day fair has generated considerable interest among tree lovers as well as general visitors. People of different ages are visiting the fair and collecting saplings of their choice for planting in their home courtyards, educational institutions, and various organizations.
The organizers said that the tree fair, which began on August 19 at the District Shilpakala Academy premises, will continue until August 25.
FP/R
