The Forest Department has installed nylon fence in 40-km areas at critical locations in the Sundarbans to halt the entry of tigers, deer and other wild animals to locality and increase the tiger population in the world’s largest mangrove forest. Sources at the Forest Department said they have already set up nylon fence in 40 kilometers area and works are ongoing to bring another 20 km under the fence. They said the Ministry of Environment and Forest, and Climate Change approved a project ‘Tigers’ preservation of the Sundarbans’ involving over Tk 35.93 crore on March 23, 2022 with deadline in March, 2025. Erection of the fence started in October last year and its work has been going on since then. Dr Abu Naser Mohsin Hossain, project director and also divisional forest officer of the Sundarbans West Forest Department, said they have already set up the Nylon fence covering Bagerhat’s Dhansagar, Sarankhola, Satkhira’s Koikhali, Khulna’s Koilashganj and other areas. Read: Tiger population in Sundarbans set to increase: Results of latest survey to be announced on October 8 Members from the Village Tigers’ Response Team have been involved in the project to monitor work so that miscreants can’t damage the fence, he said. The forest official said tigers and deer are taking shelter in mud forts when the water level is high during storms and new full moon tide. Read more: Sundarbans set to reopen Sunday after 3-month closure Camera trapping is being considered to monitor which animals climb up and how long they stay, he said. Besides, proposals have been sent to build 8 more mud forts inside the forest, the forest official added.

The Sundarbans, a UNESCO World Heritage site, is a mangrove forest known for its rich biodiversity, unique ecosystem, and serene waterways. Among its many treasures is the Kotka Sea Beach, a tranquil coastal retreat where the forest meets the Bay of Bengal. Visiting this natural haven will let you witness the untouched beauty of the forest and the sea. Location of Kotka Sea Beach Kotka holds a special appeal for tourists among the many captivating spots in the Sundarbans. Located in the southeastern corner of the Sundarbans, Kotka Beach is around 90 km from Mongla Port in Khulna. It serves as the heart of the Sundarbans Eastern Sanctuary.  Renowned for its unspoiled natural beauty, diverse wildlife, and peaceful atmosphere, Kotka offers a pristine beach and lush greenery. This picturesque destination allows visitors to fully immerse themselves in the untouched wilderness of the Sundarbans, making it a must-visit for nature lovers and adventure enthusiasts alike. ead more: Lawachara National Park Travel Guide: Evergreen forest in northeastern Bangladesh Ways to Reach Kotka Sea Beach from Dhaka: A Detailed Travel Guide Dhaka to Bagerhat By Air  The fastest route is a flight from Dhaka to Jashore Airport which takes around 45 minutes. Several flights operate daily, with costs ranging from 4000 to 5,250 BDT. It is a 3-4 hour journey from Jessore to Bagerhat by bus or car. By Train  Alternatively, you can take a train from Dhaka’s Kamalapur Station to Khulna. The fares range from 625 to 2,200 BDT. The trip lasts around 8-10 hours, followed by a 1-2 hour journey by bus or car to Bagerhat.  By Bus  Direct buses from Dhaka to Bagerhat are available, costing between 650 and 700 BDT. The bus journey takes about 6-8 hours. There are also buses to Khulna from Gabtoli or Sayedabad with fares 650 to 1,600 BDT and a further 1-2 hour trip to Bagerhat. Read more: Sylhet’s Jaflong Travel Guide: Where Nature’s Beauty Blooms From Bagerhat to Kotka Sea Beach To visit Kotka in the Sundarbans, permission from the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) in Khulna is required. The main transport to Kotka is by water, usually via a launch. You can board a launch from Rupsa in Khulna or Mongla Port in Bagerhat.  Alternatively, boats can be rented from Morelganj or Sharankhola. Private motor launches, speedboats, and vessels are available. It is recommended to book through a local tour operator for guided services and permit arrangements. Cost of Visiting Kotka The daily travel fee for domestic tourists in the Sundarbans Sanctuary is BDT 150, and BDT 30 for students. Foreign tourists pay BDT 1,500. Outside the sanctuary, fees are BDT 70 for locals and BDT 20 for students.  Read more: Tinap Saitar Waterfall Travel Guide: Visit a pristine natural fountain in Bandarban In Karamjal, the fee is BDT 20 for locals and BDT 300 for foreigners. Additional charges include BDT 500 per day for guides, BDT 300 for security, BDT 70 for launch crew, and BDT 200 for telecommunication. Video camera fees are BDT 200 for locals and BDT 300 for foreigners.  What to See and Do in Kotka Sea Beach Wildlife Safari  Kotka is famous for its rich wildlife. You can also spot majestic herds of deer gracefully roaming the area. During the winter season, tiger paw prints become visible. Early morning safaris offer the chance to spot the Royal Bengal Tiger, monkeys, and crocodiles in their natural habitat. Bird Watching  Kotka has over 50 species of birds, including rare and migratory ones. All these together make Kotka a haven for bird lovers and photographers. Read more: Manpura Island Travel Guide: Breathtaking Paradise in Southern Bangladesh Trekking  The grassy meadows between Katka and Kachikhali (Tiger Point) offer scenic trekking routes for adventure seekers. It provides a closer look at the Sundarbans’ unique ecosystem. Watchtower Visit  You can climb the watchtower for breathtaking panoramic views of the Sundarbans mangrove forest, Kotka Sea Beach, and the Bay of Bengal. This is an excellent spot for birdwatching and enjoying the sunset.

The Forest Department has undertaken a major initiative to restore mangrove forests along the banks of 52 rivers and canals near the Sundarbans in Khulna. This effort, inspired by the successful mangrove reforestation at Sheikh Russel Eco Park, aims to combat the impacts of climate change by planting native Sundarbans vegetation along these waterways. In a model project at Sheikh Russel Eco Park in Batiaghata, mangrove reforestation was carried out on five acres of land along a lake, using saline water from the Rupsha River. This reforestation involved planting 4,000 mangrove saplings, setting a precedent for similar efforts in Khulna, Bagerhat, and Satkhira districts. The project, funded by the French Development Agency and implemented by IUCN Bangladesh and the Forest Department, will focus on restoring mangrove forests along 52 rivers and canals that flow through rural areas of Shyamnagar, Mongla, Dakop, Koyra, and Morelganj, eventually entering the Sundarbans. ‘Sundarbans Honey’ being registered as Bangladesh’s GI product: Industries Ministry According to the Sundarbans West Division, this initiative is part of the ‘Upper Sundarbans Restoration Program,’ designed to enhance climate resilience in the region. The rivers and canals, once teeming with freshwater and vital to the Sundarbans’ mangrove ecosystem, have seen diminished water flow due to human activities such as deforestation, construction of embankments, and installation of sluice gates. These activities have led to the decline of mangrove forests along these waterways. French President Emmanuel Macron’s visit to Bangladesh in September last year highlighted the French government's commitment to supporting climate-affected countries. Following his visit, the French Development Agency, with IUCN Bangladesh’s support, launched the ‘Upper Sundarbans Restoration Program’ to mitigate the impacts of climate change on the Sundarbans and surrounding rural areas. Dr. Abu Naser Mohsin Hossain, Divisional Officer of the Sundarbans West Forest Division, said that from July 6 to 8, officials from the Forest Department, French Development Agency, and IUCN Bangladesh will jointly visit the cyclone-affected settlements in the upper Sundarbans and the mangrove model at Sheikh Russel Eco Park. This visit will lead to the launch of a pilot project aimed at restoring the mangrove forests along the banks of the region’s rivers and canals. Read more: Three-month ban in Sundarbans worries local communities

Local communities, including fishermen, Bawal (wood collectors), and Mowal (honey collectors), who rely on the Sundarbans for their livelihoods, are concerned about a three-month ban on all activities in the forest starting today (June 01, 2024). These communities returned home a few weeks ago due to the cyclonic storm Remal, and the forest department has since restricted re-entry into the Sundarbans. With the ban in place, they face a period without income. Forest Dept declares Sundarbans closed to visitors for 3 months The local administration has assured the affected communities of food assistance through the Fisheries Department. Fishermen have expressed their worries, stating their families depend on collecting fish, crabs, and honey in the Sundarbans. With their limited catch prior to returning home due to the storm, many have no savings to sustain them through the ban period. The three-month ban on fishing and tourism in the Sundarbans, effective from June 1 to August 31, aims to provide a safe breeding environment for fish and wild animals. The movement of all vessels, including boats and fishing trawlers, is prohibited, along with the entry of fishermen and honey collectors. Local and foreign tourists are also barred from entering the forest during this time. AKM Iqbal Hossain Chowdhury, Assistant Forest Conservator of the West Sundarbans, explained that June to August is the primary breeding season for fish in the region's rivers and canals. Cyclone Remal: 15 more dead deer recovered from Sundarbans During these three months, most fish release eggs, and it is also the breeding season for many wild animals. Restricting access helps protect biodiversity and wildlife, he said. The damage caused by Cyclone Remal to the forest’s biodiversity and wildlife is expected to recover more quickly with the ban in place. Abu Naser Mohsin Hossain, a forest official of the Sundarbans West Division, confirmed that entry into the Sundarbans will resume on September 1. Since 2019, the Integrated Resource Management Plan (IRMP) has recommended closing the Sundarbans' rivers and canals to fishing from July 1 to August 31 annually. In 2021, this restriction was extended to three months, starting June 1, in coordination with the Fisheries Department. The Sundarbans is home to about 289 species of animals, including 42 species of mammals, 35 species of reptiles, 8 species of amphibians, and 219 species of aquatic animals. Cyclone Remal: Animal death toll in Sundarbans rises to 100 If boats ply the rivers and canals, it disrupts the fish during their egg-laying period, so all types of boats are banned, explained Mihir Kumar Doe, Khulna Forest Conservator. He noted that this year's ban follows the same pattern as previous years. The local communities remain hopeful that the promised assistance will help them navigate through this challenging period.

The recently constructed patrol outposts under the 'Protection of Sundarbans Mangrove Forest Project' are set to provide crucial shelter for forest guards and foresters during the upcoming monsoon season. Two new outposts in the Hayatkhali and Bojboja areas were completed in the last fiscal year and are now operational. Additionally, ongoing construction of outposts at Nalian Station, Hadda, Sharbatkhali, Shakbaria, and Pashkhali under the Khulna range, as well as the Kalagachia patrol camp under the Satkhira range, is expected to be finished soon. The government initiative aims to protect forest guards from natural calamities such as cyclonic storms and tidal surges, which pose significant dangers to their lives. The three-storey office-staff barracks of the Sundarbans Protection Project have become a safe haven for the forest guards during natural disasters, said Mizanur Rahman, in charge of the Bojboja patrol camp, and Md Muktadir, in charge of the Hayatkhali camp, noting the improved morale among the forest guards due to the enhanced security. The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, serves as a vital shield against natural disasters, protecting the coastal population. The Tk 157.87 crore project, which started in January 2021, is set to be completed by December this year, according to the Forest Department. The project includes the construction of 28 new outposts and two range offices. Sundarbans Day in southwestern region on Feb 14; a clarion call to love, save the forest Additional initiatives under the project involve the re-excavation of the Bhola and Aruaber rivers and Kharma canals, alongside research and survey works focusing on the Sundarbans. Key activities of the project include training Forest Department officials in wildlife crime control, wildlife conservation, primary treatment, SMART patrolling, wildlife habitat observation, and other essential skills. This training aims to enhance their efficiency and response to the diverse challenges within the Sundarbans. Dr. Abu Naser Mohsin, Khulna Divisional Forest Officer for the Sundarbans West Zone, emphasized the project's significance. The long-standing housing problem of forest guards will be solved through this initiative, he said. Post-implementation, they will have detailed ecological data on trees, plants, animals, birds, water salinity, and aquatic life, he added. The Center for Environmental and Geographic Information Services (CEGIS) and the Arannyak Foundation have been conducting research for two years, with findings expected to be available by December 2025. This research includes studying the biodiversity of the Sundarbans, the impacts of climate change, increasing salinity, early disease diagnosis in Sundari trees, and the lifecycle of forest animals and aquatic resources. "Biodiversity and aquatic resources of the Sundarbans, an invaluable resource of Bangladesh, need to be researched in a multidimensional and coordinated way," said Prof. Anwarul Quadir, executive director of Sundarbans Academy. "We have been demanding the government form a separate ministry for the Sundarbans to ensure its protection and preservation." Climate change makes a decline in forest density in Sundarbans’ water bodies: Study

Firefighting efforts started this morning in the Sundarbans East Zone’s Amurbunia area, following a fire that erupted on Saturday (May 04, 2024). The operation, which began at 9 am on Sunday (May 05, 2024), saw the coordinated efforts of the Navy, Air Force, Coast Guard, Forest Guard, and Fire Service. The initial response was led by a ten-member team from the Mongla naval base. Following this, members of the Fire Service attempted to set up water extraction from the nearby Bhola River. However, the operation faced a setback due to low tide conditions, delaying the water supply. Probe committee formed over Sundarbans fire Kazi Muhammad Nurul Karim, the Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of Sundarbans East Zone, stated that logistical challenges prevented the operation from starting sooner. "The Navy, Coast Guard, and Air Force joined the Fire Service this morning to accelerate efforts. Local volunteers are also lending significant support," he reported. Mamun Ahmed, Deputy Director of Bagerhat Fire Service and Civil Defense, detailed the deployment of additional firefighting units. "Five units from various locations were dispatched to the site this morning, with three from Mongla, Morrelganj, and Shoronkhola actively engaging in the firefighting efforts. The remaining two units are on standby," he said. Fire breaks out at Sundarbans

The Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest, has become a hub of activity, drawing nature enthusiasts from around the globe with its stunning landscapes and diverse wildlife. This natural wonder is not only a key tourist attraction but also plays a vital role in promoting environmental conservation and boosting local revenue. During the prime visiting months from October to February, the Sundarbans offers visitors cool river waters and pleasant weather, making it an ideal destination for exploring its unique ecosystem. Recent statistics reveal a significant uptick in tourism, with 216,143 visitors, including 2,143 international guests, in the fiscal year 2022-2023, generating Tk 3.94 crore in revenue for the government. This marks a notable increase from previous years, highlighting the forest's growing appeal and importance to Bangladesh's economy. According to data collected from the local forest office, the number of tourists was 1,89,570 in the fiscal year 2018-2019 and of them, 2,261 came from other countries. The government earned Tk 1.51 crore during this period. Read: Sundarbans Day in southwestern region on Feb 14; a clarion call to love, save the forest  In the fiscal year, 2019-2020, the number of tourists was 1,72,979. Of them 2,317 came from overseas. A total of Tk 1.87 crore was collected as revenue during this period.

February 14 (Wednesday) is going to be observed as 'The Sundarbans Day' in the country. The day was declared as 'Sundarbans Day' in 2001 to support the conservation of the important ecosystem. Ahead of the 'The Sundarbans Day', Change Initiative, a leading NGO, in a study titled: “Rising Tides, Roaring Futures: The Sundarbans' Quest for Survival”, found that Sundarbans has been witnessing a decline in forest density and an increase in poisonous substances in water bodies due to the climate change. This has been causing habitat fragmentation and biodiversity loss. The Change Initiative said that Bangladesh must take immediate steps for conservation of the ecosystem, through national and international efforts; this must include joint management of protected areas, and actions against those contributing to degradation of the ecosystem. Environment minister urges developed world to honour climate commitments The Sundarbans is the largest mangrove forest in the world, located in the delta region of the Bay of Bengal. Its intricate network of tidal waterways, mudflats, and diverse flora and fauna play a crucial role in maintaining coastal ecosystems and play a significant role in the ecosystem of Bangladesh. According to the Change Initiative’s study, the changes in land cover of the Sundarbans from 1973 to 2024, show a loss of dense forest and an increase of water bodies, indicating habitat loss and fragmentation. As per the analysis, from constituting forest cover of 94.2% of the area, there was a decline to 91.5%. This indicates that there is a considerable decrease in critical ecological strongholds that provide vital natural services, ranging from carbon sequestration to coastal protection and biodiversity sustenance. Researchers estimate that there has been a loss of USD 3.3 billion in ecosystem services of the Sundarban Biosphere Reserve during the last 30 years, over 80% of which is provided by mangroves. Dhaka’s air 3rd most polluted in the world this morning Collected data further shows an increase in water body coverage from 4.8% to 7.6%, causing environmental concerns due to habitat fragmentation and biodiversity loss. The less dense forest shows a slight decrease from 1.0% to 0.9%, indicating declining forest robustness and potential degradation due to anthropogenic pressures or natural forest dynamics. Despite the increasing waterbody coverage, the 210 species of fish, shrimp, crabs, Mollusca, and lobster, native to the region; is facing depletion due to the widespread use of poisonous substances for fish baits. According to the study, the current threats and challenges faced by the Sundarbans must also be considered, such as tiger population decline, Sundari tree disappearance, Geographical Indication (GI) rights for 'Sundarbans honey', and establishment of thermal coal plant and risky infrastructure. M Zakir Hossain Khan, Chief Executive of Change Initiative and International Climate and Environmental Policy Expert, said, “Conservation of the Sundarbans is crucial and requires a multifaceted approach. This issue must be included in Loss and Damage Funding, as it is a transboundary concern”. Nearly half of the world’s migratory species are in decline, UN report says Additionally, to locally address issues of pollution, alternative sources of income must be offered to local businesses and plants who damage the local ecosystem and those who continue to contribute to pollutants in the area must face consequences, such as loss of government benefits, he said. The Sundarbans, a region in India and Bangladesh, face numerous threats. The way forward in addressing the issues requires a multi-dimensional approach. Bangladesh and India need to strengthen transboundary cooperation in the Sundarbans region, including joint management of protected areas, coordinated conservation efforts, and shared research initiatives, he said. Digital monitoring systems, such as drones, can be used to track illegal activities and wildlife movements. Sensor-based technologies can monitor salinity levels, and methods to combat illegal fishing should be introduced. Expanding protected areas and wildlife sanctuaries is crucial. Historical administrative models should be revived, and regional and international agreements should be promoted to protect 30% of land and sea by 2030. These solutions will help protect the Sundarbans from development pressures and human encroachment, ensure critical habitats are safeguarded, and promote regional and international agreements, said the Change Initiative.

Although February 14 is celebrated as Valentine's Day, the people of the coastal areas of the Sundarbans celebrate the day as 'Sundarbans Day' with a call to come forward for protecting  the forest and mitigating the impacts of climate change on the Unesco World Heritage Site. Sundarbans,  the land of mangrove and Royal Bengal Tiger, is facing the impacts climate change which is affecting nature-dependent livelihoods, health, and nutrition of nearby communities. The day has been celebrated for two decades in the coastal southwestern region including Khulna to raise awareness among people about the need of conserving the Sundarbans. On February 14, 2001, under the Bangladesh Poribesh Andolan, Khulna University and 70 other environmental organizations of the country declared February 14 as 'Sundarbans Day' and celebrate it every year. Read more: Wood collectors losing interest in Golpata collection in Sundarbans amid falling demand Taking to UNB, Professor Rafiqul Islam, a resident of Paikgachha upazila adjacent to the Sundarbans, said, "The Sundarbans is vital for our survival. The Sundarbans is the lungs of South Asia. If we do not take proper initiatives to protect it, our country will face a great disaster. So first of all you have to love the Sundarbans. February 14 is the Sundarbans Day for us. “ Bidesh Ranjan Mridha, president of Koyra Unnayan Sangram Coordination Committee, said, "On February 14, we want to inspire the coastal people to love the Sundarbans. Many people do not understand what damages are being done to the Sundarbans. Nature in the forest is changing due to the  rise in the salinity level.” “Sundari tree, one of the most extensively found mangrove species in the Sundarbans, is disappearing fast. Goran, Gewa, Keora are growing there. The nature of water and soil of the Sundarbans has changed. If there was no Sundarbans, Koyra upazila would have been vanished by the cyclones, “ he added. Keramat Mawla, a former member of Mahisharipur union adjacent to the Sundarbans,  said, "Now fish are not found in the river next to our Sundarbans. Profit mongers are killing animals with poison to destroy the Sundarbans. The number of deer is also shrinking. Golpata collectors cut thousands of maunds of leaves with a permit of 500 maunds. We want to make local residents aware of these issues on Sundarbans Day.” Read: Jashore flower growers eye Tk 70 cr sale in the month of language, Falgun, Valentine’s Day

Fish worth Tk one crore, kept under the open sky for drying, at Dublar Char in the Sundarbans were damaged due to the incessant rain triggered by the cyclonic storm ‘Midhili’. Kamal Uddin Ahmed, chairman of Dubla Fishermen’s Group, said 60,000 quintals (1 quintal = 100 kg) of fish have been damaged. Harun-or-Rashid, officer of Bagerhat-Mongla Weather Observatory Centre, said the Met office recorded 91 mm of rainfall in 24 hours, from 6 pm Thursday till 6 pm Friday, in Bagerhat. Tiger footprints cause panic in Bagerhat locality A total of 10,000 fishermen from the coastal areas gathered at Dublar Char, popularly known as “Shutki Polli” or Dried Fish Village, as the dried fish processing season kicked off on November 3. Every year, several thousand fishermen and hired hands flock to the area to catch fish and make shutki (dried fish) in Shelar Char, Narikelbaria, Majherkella and Alorkol of Sharankhola range of the East zone of Sundarbans. The dried fish processing will continue till March, next year. Dublar Char experienced intermittent rainfall for the past couple of days due to the depression in the Bay of Bengal. Motorbike-private car collision leaves 2 dead in Bagerhat Frustration gripped the fishermen at Dublar Char as fish worth Tk one crore were damaged due to the rain. Khalilur Rahman, in-charge of Dublar Char forest camp, said the authorities concerned informed the fishermen about the inclement weather through loudspeaker. The stench of rotten fish is prevailing in the area, affecting the environment and health of the fishermen and others living on the char, he said. “It is difficult for the fishermen to stay in the strong stench. It would be better to dump the fish damaged due to the rain,” said Kamal Uddin, chairman of Dubla Fishermen’s Group. 446 shelters prepared in Bagerhat Muhammad Nurul Karim, Divisional Forest Officer of Sundarbans East Zone, said the extent of the losses caused by the rain could not be ascertained yet. The periphery of the cyclonic storm Midhili crossed the Mongla-Payra coast near Khepupara as of Friday noon, according to the Bangladesh Meteorological Department (BMD). Cyclone Midhili completed crossing the coast by the evening, it said.