Stop cutting trees in the name of beatification

In recent years, Dhaka, the capital city, has seen a rapid increase in the number of massive construction projects. The city is expanding at a breakneck pace, and development projects are springing up all over the place. Unfortunately, this rapid expansion has come at a significant cost to the environment, as more and more trees are being cut down in the name of development.

The importance of trees in urban areas cannot be overstated. They provide shade, absorb carbon dioxide, and release oxygen into the atmosphere. Trees also help to reduce noise pollution, and they provide habitats for birds and other wildlife. Unfortunately, despite their importance, trees in Dhaka are often seen as obstacles to development. We have seen numerous instances of trees being felled to make way for new construction projects.

The trees are being cut down for a Tk 9.62 crore project initiated under the Dhaka South City Corporation to develop different infrastructures and build public toilets, pavements, and walkways in the area, amid the existing scarcity of greenery in the capital.

In 2019, it was reported that more than 150 trees would be felled to make way for a new flyover in the city. This is not an isolated incident, and it is just one of many examples of trees being sacrificed for the sake of development.

The issue of Dhaka being denuded of trees is not a new one. Over the years, we have seen countless trees being cut down to make room for new roads, buildings, and other infrastructure projects. While development is necessary for the growth of a city, it should not come at the cost of the environment. Trees are an essential part of the ecosystem, and we cannot afford to lose them.

One of the main reasons for the rapid deforestation in Dhaka is the lack of proper planning and regulation. The government and developers often prioritize development projects over environmental concerns. There is a lack of understanding and appreciation of the benefits of trees and the need for their preservation. This lack of planning and regulation has resulted in the unchecked destruction of the city’s green spaces.

The consequences of deforestation in Dhaka are severe. The city is already facing the brunt of climate change, with rising temperatures, water shortages, and air pollution. Deforestation only exacerbates these problems, as it leads to a loss of biodiversity, soil erosion, and an increase in greenhouse gases. The loss of green spaces also contributes to the urban heat island effect, where cities are significantly warmer than surrounding rural areas.

It is time for the government and developers in Dhaka to take environmental concerns seriously. They must prioritize the preservation of green spaces and the protection of trees. This can be done by incorporating green spaces into development plans, implementing regulations that protect trees, and planting more trees to replace those that have been lost.

The government can also work with different NGOs and other organizations to raise awareness about the importance of trees and the need for their protection. Educational campaigns can be launched to inform the public about the benefits of trees and how they can help to mitigate the effects of climate change.

Finally, citizens themselves have a crucial role to play in protecting trees in Dhaka. They can report instances of tree felling to the authorities and demand action. They can also participate in community planting drives to help increase the city’s green cover.

The rapid deforestation in Dhaka is a matter of great concern. The city cannot afford to lose its green spaces, and the government and developers must take steps to protect trees and preserve the environment. The benefits of trees are numerous, and they play a crucial role in mitigating the effects of climate change.