There is no alternative to massive greening to protect the environment, combat the adverse effects of climate change and build livable cities. For this purpose, Chittagong City Corporation is implementing the program of planting 1 million trees in the city, said Chittagong City Corporation Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain.
The mayor said this while inaugurating the month-long tree care program organized on the occasion of World Environment Day at the Binnaghas project area in Tigerpass on Sunday (June 7).
Mayor Dr. Shahadat Hossain said that the Prime Minister has announced to plant 25 crore trees in five years. It is a visionary and timely initiative. If every citizen of the country comes forward in planting and caring for trees, then it will be possible to build a green, clean and environment friendly Bangladesh.
He said, in line with this goal, 1 million trees are being planted in the city to bring back the balance of the environment under the initiative of Chittagong City Corporation and with the cooperation of various social organizations. From Kalurghat in the city to the airport, the entire mid-island will be filled with flowers and greenery. Apart from the beautification of the roads, there will be extensive plantation of trees in various empty spaces, parks and open spaces of the city. Already 6500 saplings of 26 species are being planted on the road between Dewanhat and Barik Building. Among which, Jarul, Sonalu, Radhachura, Kamini, Kanchan, Hasnahena, Gandharaj, Shiuli, including about 10 species of endangered indigenous trees are notable. Appropriate measures are also being taken to maintain these trees including daily watering, weeding.
He urged everyone to be aware to protect the canals and water bodies of the city, including the Karnaphuli and Halda rivers, saying that the environment is being polluted due to the dumping of plastic, polythene and other waste everywhere and causing waterlogging. These wastes eventually end up in the canals and rivers and pose a serious threat to the environment.
Chasik's acting chief executive officer and secretary were also present at this time. Ashraful Amin, Mayor's Watershed Adviser Shahriar Khaled, Slum Development Officer Moinul Hossain Ali Joy, Deputy Chief Clean Officer Pranab Kumar Sharma and others.
