Minister inspects 18 Sundarbans-side resorts

Environment, Forest and Climate Change State Minister Lion Dr Sheikh Faridul Islam inspected 18 resorts near the Sundarbans on Wednesday to assess whether they are harming the forest's wildlife and ecosystem.

He visited the resorts under the Dhangmari Forest Station of the Chandpai Range from morning to noon, accompanied by officials from the Department of Environment and Forest Department.

Sheikh Faridul said the visit aimed to verify allegations of illegal resort construction and activities within the Ecologically Critical Area (ECA).

He warned that any illegal activities, noise pollution or deer hunting would be stopped. He also said resorts should use solar energy instead of generators to prevent noise pollution.

The minister said no immediate signs of environmental damage were found during the inspection. A final decision will be taken after discussions at a ministry meeting.

The visit came after the Department of Environment announced the closure of 18 resorts near the Sundarbans on October 4.

-AJM