Catch up on about one-tenth of Bangladesh’s land area, the Chittagong Hill Tracts is not only a haven of natural beauty, but also the country’s main ‘biodiversity hotspot’ or the heart of biodiversity. However, climate change, indiscriminate deforestation and mountain cutting have put the natural balance of the region under extreme threat.
The evergreen and semi-evergreen forests of the Chittagong Hill Tracts were once home to Asian elephants, clouded leopards and rare species of banrui. According to researchers, more than half of Bangladesh’s wildlife and plant species are found in these three hill districts. In particular, the Sangu and Matamuhuri Reserve Forests are still the last refuges for many endangered species.
In recent years, the mountain forests have been declining at an alarming rate. Deep forests are being cleared for teak and other valuable timber. Due to population growth and land scarcity, repeated cultivation of jhum on the same hills without giving it a rest is reducing soil fertility. In many cases, mountains are being cut down without considering the environmental impact due to road construction and expansion of tourist centers. Due to forest destruction, the natural water sources or ‘jhiris’ in the hills are drying up, which is making it difficult for the lives of hill people and the survival of wildlife.
Due to the reduction of forests, conflicts between humans and wild elephants are increasing. Elephants are raiding localities in search of food, resulting in loss of life on both sides. In addition, the Dhanesh bird, bear and rare species of monkeys are suffering from the loss of forests.
According to environmental experts, “If the hills lose their green cover, not only wildlife, but also hill towns will face long-term disasters due to landslides and water shortages.”
According to environmentalists and concerned circles, effective steps are needed now to protect hill biodiversity. Bringing existing forest areas under strict security. Developing a limited scale tourism industry without harming nature. Reduce dependence on sugarcane cultivation and encourage local people to grow fruit orchards and sustainable agriculture. Ensure strict implementation of laws to prevent mountain cutting and wildlife poaching.
The hills of the Chittagong Hill Tracts are the lungs of Bangladesh. Protecting this vast forest and its diverse fauna is no longer just a hobby, but has become a part of national security.