Photo: BSS

KHULNA, May 22, 2026 (BSS) - Khulna City Corporation (KCC) Administrator Nazrul Islam Manju today stressed the need for forming a separate Sundarbans Board alongside strict enforcement of forest conservation laws to protect the world's largest mangrove forest from growing environmental threats.

He made the call while addressing a dialogue titled "Resilient Sundarbans: Youth, Climate and Coastal Future" as the chief guest at CSS Ava Centre in the city.

The dialogue was jointly organised by the Centre for Climate Change and Environmental Research of BRAC University, Mission Green Bangladesh (MGB) and Swapnapuri Kallyan Sangstha with support from the UK government.

Referring to forest conservation initiatives adopted in different countries, Manju said it was unfortunate that people in Bangladesh often failed to protect their own natural resources.

He also emphasised stopping water vessel movement through the Sundarbans, curbing forest-based commercial activities and creating alternative livelihood opportunities for forest-adjacent communities.

Speakers at the discussion said the Sundarbans, a UNESCO-declared World Heritage Site, serves as Bangladesh's frontline defence against sea-level rise, cyclones, tidal surges and other climate-induced disasters.

They said the forest plays a vital role in preserving biodiversity and supporting the livelihoods of millions of people.

However, rising salinity, climate change impacts and increasing human-wildlife conflict are posing serious threats to the forest ecosystem.

The discussion also highlighted that research findings and field experiences under the "Nabapallab" and "Engage for Sundarbans" projects would be incorporated into national-level policy discussions and decision-making processes.

The "Nabapallab" project focuses on strengthening climate resilience through climate-adaptive livelihoods, renewable energy and locally led adaptation initiatives.

The organisers said the projects aim to strengthen environmental and economic protection of the Sundarbans at the national level, ensure meaningful participation of youth in environmental governance and formulate effective recommendations supporting national climate and coastal policies.

Professor Dr. Ainun Nishat of BRAC University chaired the dialogue.

Among others, Khulna Deputy Commissioner Hoore Jannat, Acting Vice-Chancellor of Trust University Dr Md Monjurul Kibria, Country Coordinator of Waterkeepers Bangladesh Sharif Jamil and Executive Director of Center for Natural Resource Studies Mokhlesur Rahman spoke as special guests.

Nearly 250 representatives, including youth climate leaders, community representatives, government officials, researchers, academics, NGO representatives, development partners, journalists and professionals, took part in the dialogue.