When rapid unplanned urbanisation has been engulfing the green coverage of Dhaka, a praiseworthy initiative has been taken to create the country's first ever urban forest in Purbachal Residential Area of the capital.

The Forest Department and Rajdhani Unnayan Katripakkha (Rajuk) have joined forces in a collaborative effort to conserve and enhance Dhaka's green spaces.

The urban forest, encompassing a vast area of 144 acres located at plot-24 and plot-25 in Purbachal, will be the result of an upcoming memorandum of understanding (MoU) between the two government bodies.

RSM Munirul Islam, the conservator of Forest for the Social Forestry Circle in Dhaka, said this urban forest will be  designated as a special biodiversity conservation area. Furthermore, the forest will be recognised and protected under the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act.

Munirul Islam emphasised the intention to preserve the originality of the Shal forest, as the chosen area already consists a forest that serves as a habitat for various wildlife species such as jackals, macaques, civets, snakes, and birds.

The forest restoration plan involves the plantation of Horithoki, Bohera, Kumbi, Pitraj, and Holdu trees.

Jibon O Prakriti Foundation will conduct a wildlife and biodiversity survey, while a master plan is being developed to ensure effective conservation efforts.

To promote research and facilitate nature-based education for children and students, a Natural Learning Centre will be constructed within the forest. Additionally, a beat office under the Forest Department will be established to manage and safeguard the forest against encroachment, according to the senior official of the Social Forestry department.

Urban forests serve as vital defenses against airborne pollutants, alleviate the heat island effect, improve mental well-being, and contribute to the replenishment of water tables.

Prof Adil Mohammed Khan of the Department of Urban and Regional Planning at Jahangirnagar University said, "An urban forest helps maintain the environmental equilibrium of a city. Ideally, a city should maintain 25 to 30 percent green coverage, with five to 10 percent dedicated to urban forests. If properly implemented, this initiative could greatly benefit a city like Dhaka."

Maj (retd) Shamsuddin Ahmed Chowdhury, a member of Rajuk responsible for development, revealed that the draft MoU with the Forest Department has nearly been finalised.

He emphasised the importance of conserving and expanding the existing greenery in Purbachal to prevent any commercial encroachment.

Chowdhury acknowledged that the Forest Department possesses the necessary laws and regulations to safeguard the area. Hence, they engaged the department to establish a legal conservation framework for the designated forest area, he added.

"By undertaking this significant initiative, Dhaka aims to strike a balance between urban development and environmental preservation, setting an example for other cities to follow suit," he added.