'Sundarbans Day' observed

Sundarban Rokkha Jatiya Committee (committee to protect the Sundarbans) forms a human chain in front of Jatiya Press Club in the capital yesterday demanding that the day be declared ‘Sundarbans Protection Day’. Photo: Star

The Sundarbans Academy and Bangladesh Forest Department yesterday for the second year in a row observed “The Sundarbans Day” at Khulna district's Shilpakala Academy, demanding state recognition of the day.

Discussions and cultural competitions were held in Khulna, Satkhira, Bagerhat, Barguna and in the nearby areas to the Sundarbans, the largest mangrove forest in the world, with the slogan “Love the Sundarbans on Valentine's Day”.

Concern Worldwide, Relief International, Crel, WildTeam, and Khulna Press Club sponsored the programmes.

European Union Ambassador and Head of Delegation Pierre Mayaudon was present in Khulna as chief guest while lawmaker of Khulna-2 constituency Mizanur Rahman Mizan, Convener of Bangladesh Chapter of Sundarbans Supporters' Committee Md Liaqot Ali, Khulna Press Club President Mokbul Hossain Mintu, and environmentalist Dr Atik Rahman were present as special guests.