We must save the Sundarbans for our own sake to protect ourselves from natural disasters: TIB

Stressing the need to protect the Sundarbans for our own sake, Transparency International Bangladesh (TIB) has stated that the Sundarbans had helped weaken Cyclone Bulbul and was responsible for the low levels of damage in many coastal areas. 

The organisation said that construction of the Rampal Power Plant and other projects in the area must be stopped to save the Sundarbans. 

In a statement released by the organisation, Executive Director of TIB, Dr Iftekaruzzaman said, "The contribution of the Sundarbans in keeping the region safe from most storms and cyclones has been recognised by the meteorology department. The Sundarbans has previously reduced the impact of Sidr, Aila and other cyclones. Not only this, the Sundarbans has helped maintain the biodiversity of the country. We must do everything to protect it."

Dr Iftekaruzzaman blamed the coal-based projects for leading the destruction of the Sundarbans, and said, "These projects are being undertaken without considering any international measures or regulation, even though recently there has been fear of the Sundarbans being included in the World Heritage Danger list."

Citing the government's target of producing 50% of its power from renewable energy sources by 2050, Dr Iftekaruzzaman called for a halt to the construction of the Rampal, the Taltali and other coal-based power plants. He added that immediate steps should be taken to formulate a long term plan for using renewable energy.