Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Saber Hossain Chowdhury on Thursday said no infrastructure can be constructed in the forests.

“Forests must be seen as resources. Forests can’t be destroyed by constructing roads or any other infrastructure through the forests,” he said.

The environment minister was addressing a discussion organised by the Department of Forest, marking the International Day of Forests 2024.

He said laws are being formulated for forest conservation. Forest research will be increased.

Saber Hossain said all should work together in conserving forests, wildlife and biodiversity in a bid to present a beautiful Bangladesh for the present and future generations.

He said afforestation and monitoring activities are being digitized. The forest is being monitored and crimes are being curbed successfully in the Sundarbans following the introduction of smart patrolling system.

Mobile apps are being prepared to get tickets and other services online for tourists in the Sundarbans and other protected areas, said the minister, adding that the existing laws, rules and regulations are being updated to achieve various targets in this regard.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Secretary Dr. Farhana Ahmed, Additional Secretary (Administration) Iqbal Abdullah Harun; and Aranyak Foundation Chairman Professor Dr AJM Manjur Rashid, among others, spoke at the discussion presided over by Chief Forest Conservator Amir Hossain Chowdhury.

In the function, cheques were conferred to the beneficiaries of social forestry and prizes were distributed among the winners of the 'Tree Identification' competition held on the occasion of International Forest Day, said a press release.