Dhaka: State Minister for Environment, Forest and Climate Change Sheikh Faridul Islam today emphasized that planting trees alone is not sufficient, highlighting the importance of proper care and maintenance of saplings to maximize their environmental benefits. He called for integrating tree plantation into both social and family life, suggesting that tree species should be selected based on the environmental and ecological characteristics of each district and region.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the state minister made these remarks while addressing a discussion on tree plantation as the chief guest at the Shaheed Altaf Auditorium of the Khulna City Corporation (KCC). He urged authorities and citizens to continue tree plantation initiatives throughout the year instead of restricting them to the monsoon season, asserting that large-scale afforestation plays a crucial role in reducing carbon emissions and maintaining ecological balance.
Sheikh Faridul also announced a prohibition on brick kilns producing bricks by burning wood. He stated that all deputy commissioners and upazila nirbahi officers (UNOs) across the country have been instructed to take necessary measures to enforce this regulation. The state minister further emphasized the expansion of environmentally friendly block technology as an alternative to traditional bricks.
The meeting was chaired by KCC Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju, with the Chairman of Khulna WASA and freedom fighter Mohammad Moniruzzaman attending as a special guest. Other attendees included KCC Secretary Md Reza Rashid, Chief Engineer Mashiyuzzaman Khan, officials from various departments, representatives from all 31 wards, and journalists.
Later, the state minister planted a tree at Shaheed Hadis Park in Khulna.