CHATMOHAR, PABNA, Feb 6: Encroachment and pollution of Chalan Beel wetlands and the Baral River have intensified due to political influence and lack of proper government planning, local environmentalists said on Friday. Over the years, sections of the community have exploited the river, turning it into a dumping ground, disrupting its natural course, and threatening biodiversity.
Speaking at a press briefing organized by the Bangladesh Environmental Movement (BAPA) and the Chalan Beel Protection Committee, SM Mizanur Rahman, Member Secretary of the Baral and Chalan Beel Protection Committees, said the situation has left rivers and wetlands in critical condition. "Rivers and wetlands are vital for maintaining ecological balance. Even if we fail to understand their importance today, future generations will judge the legacy we leave behind," he said.
Rahman expressed concern over a planned Rabindra University campus construction at Buri Potaziya, which would block the outlets of Chalan Beel, Baral, and Gohala rivers. The project, estimated at Tk 520 crore, could permanently cut off the wetland's only outlet to the Jamuna, threatening Chalan Beel's survival. "We support the university, but not at the cost of destroying Chalan Beel," he added.
Chalan Beel hosts 47 rivers, 163 wetlands, more than 300 canals, 120,000 ponds, 105 species of indigenous fish, 34 reptiles, 27 mammals, 7 amphibians, 34 bird species, and countless aquatic and terrestrial plants. Its resources directly or indirectly support over a million people across six districts.
Rahman said ahead of the upcoming national election, all candidates would be urged to include environmental protection pledges in their manifestos and indicate written plans for the preservation of Chalan Beel and Baral River.
The press briefing was attended by former councillor Joydeb Kundu, advocate SM Abdur Rouf, head teacher Dil Afroza, teacher Abdus Salam, and Dr. Atikul Alam, among others.
