United News of Bangladesh

Environment Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan on Tuesday announced that the government will prioritise research and the advanced application of technology for the conservation of forests and the environment. Speaking as the chief guest at a view-exchange meeting with officials and employees of the Bangladesh Forest Research Institute (BFRI) in Chattogram, she stressed the importance of using scientific research and technology to tackle climate change and safeguard the environment. “The effective use of research and technology is crucial to combat climate change and protect the environment,” said the Adviser. Rizwana Hasan highlighted the significant role modern research plays in protecting forest resources and ensuring sustainable management. She called for an expansion of research in the field to achieve better forest management outcomes. Restoring rivers challenging but possible: Adviser Rizwana The adviser also pointed out the need to focus on innovations that can address the challenges posed by climate change. She instructed research on the impact of social forestry on natural forests and emphasised increased research on biodiversity conservation and wildlife management. In addition, the government aims to continue exploring and enhancing the use of non-timber forest resources such as bamboo, cane, and medicinal plants. She also directed efforts to improve the production of mangrove forests and ensure the optimal use of coastal land. The discussion was presided over by BFRI Director AKM Showkat Alam Mazumder. Among the distinguished attendees were Molla Rezaul Karim, conservator of Forests, Chattogram Region and Md Aminul Islam, director of the Bangladesh Forest Academy, along with BFRI officials and staff.

Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC) Administrator Mohammad Ejaz has announced that environmental protection, public health preservation, and resolving the issue of waterlogging will be prioritized in the city corporation’s development initiatives under him. The newly-installed administrator held a views-exchange meeting with journalists at the DNCC hall room on Monday (February 17). Before the meeting, Mohammad Ejaz inaugurated a photo gallery titled “Immortal Memory of the July Uprising” at the entrance wall of Gulshan Nagar Bhaban’s ground floor. The gallery sequentially presents the events of the July Uprising through photographs. Mohammad Ejaz said, “Ensuring a livable city for Dhaka means maintaining a healthy environment, ensuring clean air, saving rivers and canals, and creating open spaces for children to play, and for people to walk and relax. Roads, drainage, water, and waste management systems must function efficiently.” “Initiatives have been taken to recover and excavate canals to alleviate waterlogging during the upcoming monsoon. Drainage system improvements will be coordinated with WASA and the Dhaka South City Corporation. DNCC’s development projects will prioritize democratic processes, involving local residents and stakeholders in decision-making. Special emphasis will be placed on ensuring fair civic services for marginalized communities,” he added. DNCC drive in Mirpur removes battery-powered rickshaws from main roads On the removal of illegal banners and posters, Ejaz stated, “Banners and posters will be removed from roads. PVC banners, which are extremely harmful to the environment, are strictly prohibited. The July Uprising graffiti on walls will be preserved, and fines will be imposed for placing posters or banners. DNCC will also remain free from political influence.” He also noted, “I have visited Uttarkhan after taking charge. Initiatives have been taken to establish a park, a playground, and a community complex by demarcating and evicting illegal structures at three locations. The park will be built beside the Teromukh Bridge, while a playground and a community complex will be constructed in Amaya and Kanchkura.” Administrator Ejaz announced the formation of three honorary advisory committees for DNCC operations: the Biodiversity Committee, the Diaspora Committee, and the General Committee. The meeting was also attended by Chief Executive Officer of DNCC Abu Sayeed Md. Kamruzzaman, Secretary Mohammad Masud Alam Siddique, Chief Engineer Brig. Gen. Md. Moin Uddin, Chief Health Officer Brig. Gen. Imrul Kayes Chowdhury, Chief Waste Management Officer Commodore ABM Shamsul Alam, and other officials.