Dhaka: Water Resources and Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today stated that the local administration in Sylhet was unable to take decisive action against stone looting at the Sada Pathor tourist spot due to a ‘unity among all parties’. Rizwana asserted that this unity among local parties hindered the administration’s ability to address the issue effectively.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Rizwana highlighted the administration’s complicity or silence regarding the looting activities during a discussion with journalists at her office in the Bangladesh Secretariat. She emphasized the need for an investigation into the administration’s involvement, suggesting that the risk was too great for officials due to the local political dynamics.
Rizwana criticized the lack of ministerial engagement over the past decades, noting, “In the last 10 to 20 years, you may check whether any minister or state minister visited the field to protect the environment and tourist spots. We, two advisers, went there to protect the environment but faced obstacles.”
She elaborated on efforts to transform the Sada Pathor area into an international tourist attraction, stating, “Despite local resistance, we said it must be protected at any cost. But the local administration failed to protect it.” Rizwana expressed confidence in public power, claiming, “When the people become powerful, political parties have no job there. Ultimately, people win. I believe Sylhet will also see the victory of its people.”
Addressing the 13th parliamentary election, Rizwana shared that the Chief Adviser announced the national election would occur in the first half of February 2026, and preparations by the Election Commission are underway. Responding to questions about political reactions to the election timeline, she remarked that although political parties have their own strategies, it does not influence the government’s position.