Opposition Raises Alarm on Environmental Impact of Teesta Irrigation Project

Teesta Barrage overview

Janabandhu Golam Mohammad Quader, Chairman of the Jatiya Party and Opposition Leader, has vehemently criticized the Forest Department’s plan to remove 400,000 trees for the Teesta Irrigation Project. Highlighting the critical state of the environment due to climate change, Quader calls the action “suicidal” and insists on immediate reforestation.

Teesta Barrage, (Old Photo)

According to reports, the mass deforestation is part of an expansion effort for the project’s canals, which has already seen significant tree loss in areas like Chander Hat Bahalipara in Nilphamari Sadar, Dinajpur. Despite previous tree cuts, the areas have not seen any new reforestation efforts, which Quader points out is worsening the desertification of the Teesta region. Critics suggest that the project’s real intent might be profit-driven, hinting at corruption through the sale of timber.

Quader is pushing for a reassessment of the project, stressing the need to prioritize environmental conservation. He calls for a review to determine whose interests are being served with these drastic environmental decisions, urging a reversal to safeguard the country’s natural habitats.