Rizwana Urges Collective Action to Save Shitalakkhya River

Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today addressed a meeting in Gazipur.

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today called for collective efforts to free the Shitalakkhya River from pollution and restore its natural beauty.

“Government initiatives alone are not enough; only united action can save the Shitalakkhya River and restore its pristine condition,” she said.

The Adviser made the remarks while addressing a day-long meeting with river and environmental activists at Dhadhar Char in Kapasia, held under the slogan “Save the River, Save Life.”

The event highlighted awareness and unity, sending a clear message that everyone must step forward to protect the Shitalakkhya River.

Rizwana noted that industrial waste from Narayanganj and Gazipur is severely polluting the river.

“This pollution is not only harming the river but also threatening the ecological balance of surrounding areas,” she added.

Stressing the importance of community participation, Rizwana said cooperation from local residents and the active involvement of environmental activists are crucial for protecting rivers.

“If river pollution can be prevented, aquatic species will thrive. A healthy river ensures a sustainable environment and allows the waterway to regain its natural flow,” she said.

The event was attended by Sweden Embassy’s Head of Climate Change and Environment Division and First Secretary Nayoka Martinez-Bäckström, Department of Environment (DOE) Director Solaiman Haider, Deputy Secretary of the Water Resources Ministry Mobassherul Islam, Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) Director AKM Arif Uddin, Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) General Secretary Alamgir Kabir, and Bangladesh River Foundation Chairman Monir Hossain, among others.