Sundarbans, our friend in need

At a time when the nation is grappling with the multifarious effects of the coronavirus pandemic, bracing for the recent "super cyclone" Amphan—with wind speeds of up to 180 km per hour—was nothing short of appalling. However, by the grace of the Almighty, Amphan didn't wreak as much havoc as feared, thanks to the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest.

Coming to our rescue as it did many times in the past, it stood strongly, acting as a shield of defence for us yet again. Thus, it must be taken into serious consideration that we should protect this gift of nature for our own sake, by any means necessary. As it is, the biodiversity of the mangrove forest is already at risk, and the controversial coal-based Rampal power plant will further endanger it. Therefore, I urge the government to preserve the world heritage site by removing the coal-fired plant and other industrial units surrounding it, which will cause irreparable damage to the forest both in the long and short terms. I trust that the government will act prudently and save the country from harm's way.

Nur Jahan, Chattogram