Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan has emphasised the importance of protecting trees planted as part of social forestry, stating that these trees should only be cut down if there is an urgent need.

She also called for planting native trees, instead of eucalyptus, to maintain the ecological balance.

"The beneficiaries of social forestry will no longer profit from the sale of trees; instead, they will receive an equal amount from the Climate Change Trust Fund," the environment adviser said, while speaking as the chief guest at a views-exchange meeting held at Rangpur Circuit House on Sunday.

She highlighted the need for effective coordination among government agencies to address environmental issues such as forest destruction, pollution, and water crises.

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"It will not be possible to tackle these problems without collaborative efforts. Measures must be taken to conserve water bodies, restore forests, and control pollution to combat challenges like droughts, floods, and river erosion," she noted.

She also directed the Department of Environment to take strict actions to prevent stone crushing activities and stop illegal brick kilns. Additionally, she urged the Water Development Board to prioritise measures to prevent river erosion.

The adviser recommended planting more indigenous trees along embankments and involving local communities in these efforts to strengthen the environment.

During the meeting, officials from the Forest Department, Environment Department, and Water Development Board outlined their ongoing activities and challenges.

They shared that they are working tirelessly to address deforestation, pollution in the industrial and agricultural sectors, and water flow control issues in the Rangpur region.