KDA chairman launches tree plantation programme in Khulna

Chairman of the Khulna Development Authority (KDA) Advocate SM Shafiqul Alam Mona today underscored the importance of planned urban greening, saying environmental development is indispensable to building Khulna into a modern, attractive and fully livable city.

Speaking at the inauguration of a tree plantation programme at the KDA School and College campus in the city, he said the government, led by Prime Minister Tarique Rahman, has launched an ambitious initiative to plant 25 crore saplings across the country over the next five years, at a rate of at least 5 crore saplings annually. Describing the initiative as more than a government programme, he said it should be regarded as a national movement to protect the environment and address the impacts of climate change.

Mona said trees would be planted across educational institutions, roadsides, residential areas and the premises of religious establishments under the KDA jurisdiction as part of the campaign. He stressed that planting saplings alone would not be enough, urging people from all walks of life to ensure proper care and maintenance of every tree to preserve Khulna's ecological balance and help reduce rising urban temperatures. A special prayer was offered after the tree plantation programme. Among others, KDA Chief Engineer Kazi Md. Sabirul Alam, also vice-president of the KDA School and College governing body, Principal Md. Monirul Islam and teachers of the institution were present.