Deforestation in Bandarbans

Turning a blind eye to the laws that govern preservation of forest resources, timber merchants in cahoots with unscrupulous forest department officials are plundering away the trees. This is not only a criminal act but is also costing the government huge loss of revenue. Going by what has been publishd in this newspaper, reserve forests covering 120,000 acres in Lama, Alikadom, Ruma, Rowangchari and Thanchi upazilas of the district have mercilessly been decimated. Loggers are reportedly felling trees in the thousands of cubic feet almost every night.

We wonder if the environmental consequences of such nefarious activities are of any concern to the relevant department and government bodies responsible for guarding forest resources. Teaks, mahogany and gamer are precious varieties of wood and it takes years to grow these trees. It is not without reason that forests are declared 'reserved' in an effort to protect them and the environment from degradation. When will we learn that forests are a natural barrier against the harsh side of natural calamities?

The most common excuse furnished by the relevant authorities is shortage of manpower and properly equipped and trained guards to stop illegal logging. In our view what is pronounced here is corruptibility and incompetence. It is high time that something was done about this for we cannot afford any complacence over such debilitating disappearance of precious natural forests.