Kewra trees on Kuakata beach dying: Forest Dept blames climate change

Number of Kewra trees in the Gangamati Reserved Forest area in Kuakata are rapidly dwindling. The death of trees that were planted to protect the lives and property of people living along the coast from natural disasters is increasing the risk of disaster.

According to the forest department, these trees are dying as a result of climate change, reports our Patuakhali correspondent.

Abdullah Al Mamun, officer of Patuakhali Divisional Forest Office, said that trees are planted on the beach every year. The sea level is gradually rising as a result of climate change, and high tide is hitting the beach. More sand is accumulating on the beach as a result of the high tide, and this sand is covering the tree roots.

Every year, at least 10,000 Kewra trees die, he said, adding that new trees are planted on the beach to maintain environmental balance.

Photo: Star

Rumman Imtiaz Tushar, president of Tour Operators Association of Kuakata (TOAK), said that tourists enjoy the natural beauty of sunrise and sunset, as well as the green forest. However, the number of tourists visiting the Gangamati area of the beach is decreasing due to the gradual death of trees in this area.

Motaleb Sharif, general secretary of the Kuakata Hotel-Motel Owners Association, said, trees on the beach play an important role in protecting the beach from various disasters and attract domestic and foreign tourists.

Mohiuddin, a fisherman of Gangamati area said, "Our lives and properties are protected by these trees from natural disasters such as strong tidal waves and cyclones. Where the trees have died, strong waves of the sea hit the coast directly, causing severe erosion. The cause of the trees' death must be ascertained, and steps must be taken to replant the trees."