United News of Bangladesh

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday called for ensuring transparency in tree plantation programmes, expressing concern over discrepancies between official claims and the actual number of trees planted in a government afforestation initiative. Speaking at the inauguration of the World Environment Day programme, the Environment Fair, and the National Tree Plantation Campaign and Tree Fair-2026 at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre, the Prime Minister said greater attention and seriousness are needed to ensure accountability in such programmes. Referring to the railway line built from Chattogram to Cox’s Bazar through Dulahazara, he said a large number of trees had been felled during the implementation of the project and efforts were underway to compensate for the loss through fresh plantation. “Official records stated that around 700,000 trees had been planted there. To be honest, I sought a report from those responsible for the plantation a few weeks ago and asked them to show where the 700,000 trees had been planted,” he said. Tarique Rahman said he later verified the information himself and found that the actual number of trees on the ground was far lower than the reported figure. “After checking, I found that there were not 7,00,000 trees. There were hardly around 2,00,000. This is very unfortunate,” he said. The Prime Minister said such discrepancies highlighted the need for closer monitoring and greater transparency in plantation programmes. He also drew attention to environmental challenges facing the country, citing a report published on July 8 that ranked Dhaka as the world's third least liveable city. “Whether that news is unfortunate or not, I leave that judgement to you. But I believe the time has come for all of us to think very seriously about these issues,” he said. Tarique Rahman urged everyone attending the programme to help raise public awareness about environmental protection and the importance of tree plantation. “Environment and tree plantation are closely linked. Many people in our society are still unaware of these issues. Making them aware is our responsibility and, I believe, a sacred duty,” he said. Referring to conditions along highways and urban areas, the Prime Minister said environmental degradation is visible in many parts of the country. Recalling his recent visit to a military training facility in Savar, he said industrial development is important, but the overall condition of roadsides and surrounding areas requires attention. “I do not think such a situation is desirable in a civilised country. To some extent, we are all responsible for this condition,” Tarique Rahman said. He expressed optimism that collective efforts could bring positive change and urged citizens to take a pledge on World Environment Day to contribute to environmental protection. Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo chaired the programme. State Minister Shaikh Faridul Islam, Prime Minister’s Special Assistant Saimum Parvez and acting Secretary Fahmida Khanom, among others, spoke at the event. After the programme, the Prime Minister planted three saplings on the eastern side of the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre.