Experts for protecting forests to solve the water crisis in CHT

Experts have stressed the need for protecting forests in the Chittagong Hill Tracts to solve the water crisis there.

They were addressing a workshop titled "Lessons Learned and Way Forward" at Hasina CHT Complex in the capital yesterday.

Speaking at the workshop, Md Mashiur Rahman, secretary to the CHT affairs ministry, said the CHT has favourable climate and environmental factors for restoring natural ecosystems, including forests and water bodies.

"However, factors such as climate change and the growing demands of the developing economy are increasing biotic pressure on the CHT forest ecosystems."

Sonali Dayaratne, deputy resident representative of UNDP Bangladesh, said, "Central to our mission is the elevation of conservation awareness. Through educational initiatives, outreach programs, and capacity-building endeavours, we have instilled a deep-seated understanding of the vulnerability of our ecosystems and their indispensable role within the broader fabric of life."

Muhammad Khan, Economic Growth Office director at the USAID Bangladesh, said, "Ecosystem conservation and management is critical to ensure CHT's long-term resilience. The USAID continues to consider CHT as one of its priority regions."

Speakers highlighted community involvement in formulating and implementing conservation projects. The integration of local knowledge into project planning is a critical factor for achieving lasting outcomes, they said.