Sundarbans reopened to tourists, fishermen after 3-month ban
According to the Sundarbans Satkhira Range office, entry into the forest was restricted during June, July and August
The Sundarbans reopened today (1 September) after a three-month closure aimed at protecting biodiversity, allowing fishermen to enter the forest while tourist guides prepared to welcome visitors.
According to the Sundarbans Satkhira Range office, entry into the forest was restricted during June, July and August.
Last year more than 70,000 forest-dependent people entered the Sundarbans. Meanwhile, 45,138 local tourists, 70 foreign tourists and 401 pilgrims visited the forest, generating Tk27 lakh in revenue.
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Md Fazlul Haque, assistant forest conservator of the Sundarbans Satkhira Range, said, "Several layers of security have been arranged for forest dwellers. Tourist spots in the range have been cleaned and the Forest Department along with the River Police, coast guard, BGB and smart teams will remain active to prevent any criminal activities."
In the nearby coastal areas, fishermen were seen preparing their nets, ropes and boats. They said they will begin catching fish and crabs as soon as they receive entry permits.
Saiful Islam, a fisherman from Gabura Union, said, "The past three months were very difficult. When the Sundarbans is closed, our livelihoods are also cut off. We are happy now that the forest is open again."
The Tourist Police said all preparations have been made for the safety of visitors and urged everyone to contact it if tourists face any difficulty.
