Chattogram:The Adviser on Public Administration to the Prime Minister, Md. Ismail Zabiullah, expressed confidence in achieving the target of planting 25 crore trees over the next five years through collective effort and public participation. He emphasized that this initiative should transcend ceremonial events and evolve into a social movement focused on nurturing and preserving the trees.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Adviser made these remarks as the chief guest at an event organized by the Chattogram District Administration to plant 100,000 trees in a single day. The event took place on the premises of the Jamiatul Falah Mosque in Chattogram, as part of the government's initiative to plant 25 crore trees over five years.
Md. Ismail Zabiullah highlighted that the tree planting initiative was originally part of the late President Ziaur Rahman's 19-point programme and later became a social movement under Begum Khaleda Zia. He stated that existing social frameworks and initiatives could be strengthened to transform tree planting into a broad-based movement. The government's commitment involves planting and maintaining these trees nationwide over the designated period.
As of July, 26,394,426 trees had been planted towards this goal, though the Adviser noted that the actual number is likely higher when considering independent efforts by individuals and organizations. He also addressed environmental concerns specific to Chattogram, including risks such as landslides, and urged local administrations to take proactive measures.
The event was presided over by the Divisional Commissioner of Chattogram, Dr. Md. Ziauddin, with a welcome address by Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Miah. Notable attendees included Dr. Shahadat Hossain, Ershad Ullah, MP, Sayed Al Noman, MP, and various other officials and dignitaries.