RANGPUR, Mar 14, 2022 (BSS) - Academics and river activists at a discussion

here today stressed on saving rivers for the next generations through
ensuring water-flow round the year in those across the country.

They viewed this at the discussion styled 'Rivers and Life' organised by
Riverine People at Siddique Memorial School and College in the city in
observance of the International Day of Action for Rivers- 2022.

Chairman of Siddique Memorial School and College Ferdous Alam Mukul presided
over the discussion attended by river activists, teachers and students of the
institution.

Professor of the Department of Bengali of Begum Rokeya University and
Director of Riverine People Dr. Tuhin Wadud addressed the event as keynote
discussant.

Manzoor Arif, a member of Riverine People and Convener of the Teesta River
Protection Committee, spoke on the occasion moderated by river worker and
vocalist Sanjay Chowdhury.
 
The speakers said the riverside people and governments concerned should
become more conscientious in saving the common international rivers,
including the Teesta, and freeing those from pollution.

They stressed on keeping the rivers alive and pollution-free round the year
terming the rivers as lifelines for economy, ecology, environment, bio-
diversity and heritage.
 
Manzoor Arif said, "The biodiversity is being destroyed due to the death of
many rivers. The native fishes are becoming extinct. We have to take care of
the rivers scientifically."

Ferdous Alam Mukul said, "The Rivers of our country are our resources. If
these resources are lost, life will not be saved."

Dr. Tuhin Wadud said, "We all have a responsibility to protect the rivers. If
the rivers do not survive, we will not be able to leave any habitable
Bangladesh for the next generations."

"Each of us should have a favorite river and we need to be especially
responsible for taking care. If everyone takes the responsibility of taking
care of the river next to their homes, it will be possible to save the
rivers," he said.

 
He stressed on engaging comprehensive bilateral, regional and international
efforts in protecting and restoring all rivers and ensuring better river
management to keep those alive by ensuring water-flow round the year.

Later, the participating students displayed a writing 'Save River' in English
on the institutional ground with a call to protect the rivers.