Economist Rehman Sobhan has pointed out that no substantial steps have been taken to address the critical issue of environmental protection in Bangladesh.
Speaking at a two-day special conference organised by Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon, or BAPA, and Bangladesh Environment Network, or BEN, on Friday, Sobhan urged the interim government to form a special commission to determine the necessary actions for environmental preservation.
Sobhan, in his address as the chief guest at the opening ceremony, stressed that while the government has formed commissions and special committees on various issues, no similar measures have been taken for the environment.
“There has been no initiative to address such a vital issue as the environment. Immediate action is required,” he said.
The economist identified excessive profits and market economics as the primary causes behind environmental degradation.
He cited the lack of proper enforcement of laws as a major obstacle in the protection of the environment.
“A collective effort is necessary to address this, but first, a special commission must be formed to decide on the course of action,” Sobhan said.
He also said the rise in land prices, driven by market economy forces, has led to the encroachment of rivers, wetlands, and forest lands for housing projects, resulting in environmental harm.
“The influence of black money is also a contributing factor,” he added.
Sobhan lauded the involvement of citizens in environmental protection efforts but pointed out that many are working through different platforms, leading to a lack of coordination.
“Although the country has many modern and relevant laws, their proper implementation remains a challenge,” he said.
“To achieve success, all parties need to come together on a single platform, which will make it easier to exert pressure on the government.”
Reflecting on the Kaptai Hydroelectric Project, which was initially seen as a solution to the country’s energy problems, Sobhan said that it has caused displacement of a significant portion of the local population and severe environmental damage.
He concluded his address by urging the government to move away from projects that harm the environment.
In a separate session on Rivers and Water Management, Environment Advisor Syeda Rizwana Hasan highlighted the government’s ongoing efforts to protect the environment.
She said initiatives have been taken to clean and free rivers from encroachment and pollution, particularly around Dhaka, including the Buriganga, Turag, and Balu rivers.
Rizwana also noted the government’s steps to resolve trans-boundary river issues with India, particularly concerning the Teesta water sharing agreement, and efforts to restore ecosystems.
The conference, titled “BAPA’s 25 Years: Successes and Challenges in the Environmental Movement,” was held at Sher-e-Bangla Agricultural University’s TSC Auditorium.
BAPA President Nur Mohammad Talukder chaired the inauguration, and BEN founder and BAPA Vice-President Prof Nazrul Islam presented the concept paper.