Free saplings distributed at Char Fasson 

 
CHAR FASSON, BHOLA,  June 22: Free saplings were distributed among coastal marginal communities and students in Char Fasson on Monday as part of an initiative to address the impacts of climate change and improve livelihoods in the coastal belt.

The programme was implemented under the RHL project, funded by the Polli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF) and executed by Family Development Association (FDA).

As many as 500 beneficiary families from five disaster-prone unions, along with students from local educational institutions, received saplings of five varieties of fruit, forest and medicinal trees.

The distribution programme was held under the chairmanship of FDA Senior Programme Coordinator Shankar Chandra Debnath, while Char Fasson Upazila Social Services Officer Md Mamun Hossain attended as the chief guest.

RHL Project Manager Mehedi Azam addressed the event, with Agriculture Specialist of FDA Md Monirul Islam conducting the proceedings.
Speakers said coastal areas frequently face cyclones, tidal surges and river erosion, making climate-resilient plantation initiatives essential for protection and adaptation.

They said salt-tolerant and deep-rooted species such as mahogany, coconut, neem and wood apple help form green belts that reduce wind speed and minimise cyclone and tidal surge damage. These trees also help prevent soil erosion and maintain ecological balance.