In a country where trees are often sacrificed for development, some places in Bangladesh still showcase genuine care for the environment. Imagine encountering trees standing tall in the middle of a road—untouched and thriving. While it may seem rare, such sights exist, particularly in Teknaf, and they serve as powerful reminders of our responsibility to protect nature.
Last weekend, I visited Jahajpura, a village in Teknaf surrounded by a lush Garjan forest. Located just 500 meters from the beach, this forest stands beside a road running through the villages along Marine Drive. The towering Garjan trees, over 50 meters tall and estimated to be more than 150 years old, provide natural shade with their umbrella-like canopy. These trees, found in Teknaf and parts of Chakaria, are vital to the ecosystem. Locals attribute their survival through natural disasters and climate hazards to these ancient trees, which have become a part of the region’s heritage.
Remarkably, when a road through Jahajpura was being constructed, the local community insisted that the trees not be cut. The road was built around the trees, preserving the forest with minimal disruption. This thoughtful decision exemplifies how collective action can protect nature even in unconventional circumstances.
Maruf-Al-Kawsar, a local youth, shared how the forest was once a haven for birds and wildlife, where chirping and fluttering filled the air. However, over the years, the forest has become less dense, and wildlife sightings have diminished. This highlights the need to protect such ecosystems before they are lost forever.
Old trees are crucial to the environment, producing more oxygen and absorbing more carbon dioxide than younger ones. The preservation of the Garjan trees in Teknaf offers hope, showing that some communities understand the irreversible damage caused by deforestation.
However, the natural beauty along Marine Drive is at risk due to unplanned and excessive tourism. Cox’s Bazar, home to the world’s longest uninterrupted beach, is already witnessing the environmental costs of overdevelopment, as seen in the concrete sprawl of Kolatoli. If similar patterns occur along Marine Drive, it could have devastating consequences for the local ecosystem.
The solution lies in well-planned and regulated eco-tourism that prioritizes environmental preservation. Balancing development with sustainability is not just an option—it is a necessity to ensure that places like Teknaf’s Garjan forest continue to inspire and thrive for generations to come.
If you find this helpful and want to support me directly, why not? buymeacoffee.com/Kabir1989 Thanks so much, and good luck!
Comments
Post a Comment