Make BD safe for all life: PM

Prime Minister Tarique Rahman on Thursday called for a collective national effort to protect biodiversity and transform Bangladesh into a safe habitat for all living beings, saying environmental conservation is a shared responsibility of both the government and citizens.

“Bangladesh should become a safe habitat for all animals and all forms of life,” the prime minister said while inaugurating the Environment Fair and the National Tree Plantation Campaign at the Bangladesh-China Friendship Conference Centre.

He said biodiversity is facing increasing threats due to population growth, climate change, unplanned urbanisation, river and wetland encroachment, deforestation, and other human activities.

Tarique Rahman warned that wildlife habitats, along with aquatic plants and animals, are also being endangered by these challenges.

Emphasising the importance of protecting ecosystems, he said ensuring a safe environment for people is impossible without safeguarding all forms of life.

“Do not be cruel to wild animals. Do not treat dogs and cats inhumanely.

Protecting every animal and every form of life requires not only government initiatives but also active participation from citizens,” he said.

Beginning his speech with a verse from the Holy Quran, the prime minister said Allah has created everything on earth for the benefit of humanity.

He said rivers, trees, insects, wildlife, domestic animals, and the natural environment all contribute to human wellbeing, creating a responsibility for people to protect them.

Referring to scientific evidence, he said human society and ecosystems are deeply interconnected, and environmental protection is directly linked to people’s health and survival.

The prime minister described the Environment Fair and Tree Fair as investments in a healthy and sustainable future for current and future generations.

Calling for a united national movement to address environmental degradation and climate change, Tarique Rahman said conservation is no longer a choice but a necessity for ensuring Bangladesh’s safe and sustainable future.

He said the government has adopted long-term plans to increase forest coverage, restore ecological balance, and expand tree plantation programmes with proper care and maintenance of saplings across the country.