TIB concerned over govt unwillingness to respond to pledge

Transparency International Bangladesh yesterday called upon the government to immediately express solidarity with the global pledge -- made during the Conference of the Parties (Cop-26) in Glasgow -- to stop and reverse deforestation by 2030.

Issuing a press statement, the anti-graft watchdog further urged the government to take specific measures in line with the pledge to stop and reverse deforestation in the county, expressing concern over the contrary.

"Although Brazil and many African countries have joined the pledge, Bangladesh's unwillingness to respond [to the pledge], despite being a most vulnerable country, is unbelievable," said

TIB Executive Director Iftekharuzzaman.

He termed Bangladesh's position to

not take part in the pledge made by 124 countries "frustrating".

He said as per the forest department's estimate, about 2.87 lakh acres of forest lands, including 1.38 lakh acres of reserve forests, have been grabbed. Even the Sundarbans, which is known as a "natural protector", is under threat due to various reckless government and private initiatives.

"We expect Bangladesh will strengthen national and international efforts to ensure sufficient and timely financing in conserving and reclaiming forestlands by 2030, including stopping use of coal to reduce carbon emission," he added.

Iftekharuzzaman also said deforestation in Bangladesh will put the livelihood of about 1.9 million people in danger.