KAPTAI, RANGAMATI, May 22: The International Day of Biodiversity was observed in Kaptai on Friday through various programmes, including a rally, a children's drawing competition, tree plantation, and a discussion meeting.
The programmes began at 10 am in the conference room of Kaptai Upazila Kinnori. The event was organised under the RD-CHT project with support from the United Nations Development Programme and funding from Global Affairs Canada.
The initiative was implemented through the conservation project of the Rangamati Hill District Council.
The discussion session was chaired by Chitmorom Union Parishad Chairman Oshleimong Chowdhury and moderated by Kaptai Upazila Biodiversity and Environment Facilitator Bakul Kumar Tanchya.
Speaking as the chief guest, Kaptai Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Rayhanul Islam said environmental imbalance has led to the emergence of various epidemics in the country, adding that such imbalances are largely caused by human activities.
He urged all to remain aware of the importance of protecting hills, forests, the environment, and biodiversity, and called for collective efforts to conserve nature.
District Project Officer Kamona Shirsha Khisa delivered the opening speech.
Among others, former Kaptai Upazila Chairman Md Dildar Hossain, Kaptai Upazila Secondary Education Officer Syed Mahamud Hasan, and district UNDP representative Umeching Marma spoke as special guests.
Later, prizes were distributed among the winners of the drawing competition.
The organisers said the day was observed in 10 upazilas of the district.
