Mongla: A rally and discussion meeting was held in Mongla, Bagerhat, on the occasion of World Tiger Day to raise public awareness about the conservation of the Sundarbans and the Royal Bengal Tiger. Environmental activists, political leaders, representatives of social organisations, and people from different walks of life participated in the programme held at Mithakali Bazar area this morning.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the event was jointly organised by Dharitri Raksha Amra (Dhara), Pashur River Waterkeeper, Waterkeepers Bangladesh, and Badaban Sangha. The speakers emphasized that the Sundarbans is not only a valuable natural resource of Bangladesh but also one of the most important ecosystems in the world. They warned that the destruction of the forest would pose a serious threat to the survival of the Royal Bengal Tiger.
Dhara's central leader and Pashur River Waterkeeper Md Nur Alam Sheikh presided over the meeting, which was graced by Mongla Upazila BNP President Abdul Mannan Howlader as the chief guest. The speakers called for the effective implementation of the Tiger Action Plan, protection of the Sundarbans' biodiversity, control of forest pollution, and strict action against wildlife traffickers.
The meeting further highlighted that although tigers once roamed in 33 countries globally, they now survive in only eight countries. Therefore, the government, environmental organisations, and the public are urged to collaborate to conserve the Sundarbans and protect tigers for future generations. Earlier, a colourful rally with the theme "Save Sundarbans, Save Tigers" was conducted through various streets of Mithakali and Chandpai Bazar.