Eco-friendly tourism policy demanded

Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon (Bapa) forms a human chain at Shahbagh in the city yesterday demanding conservation of natural environment at the tourists¿ centres all over the country.. PHOTO: STAR

They depicted a wretched condition of the country's spectacular tourist sites -- Jaflong, Foy's Lake, Cox's Bazar sea beach and St Martin's Island at the rally organised by Bangladesh Paribesh Andolon (Bapa) in front of the National Museum.

Bapa Joint Secretary Zakir Hossain said the country's most popular tourist spot Cox's Bazar sea beach is now under threat as a section of profit mongering businessmen is trying to construct a jetty there, which will be detrimental to the place's eco-system.

Dr Abdul Hye Majumder said the biodiversity and eco-system of the world's only coral island is facing threat for unplanned, uncontrolled and ever increasing volume of tourists rush at St Martin's Island.

Dr Nuruddin said the natural beauty and environmental balance of Jaflong is at the verge of extinction due to 'stone eaters' who are deforesting the region indiscriminately to collect stone for business purpose.

Mihir Bishwas said now the schools often remain closed due to air and sound pollution caused by the dust of stones and giant stone-grinding machines. The Khasis are alien in their own land, he added.

Bapa General Secretary Mohidul Hoque Khan presided over the meeting while representatives of 20 non-governmental organisations joined the meeting and formed a human chain.