The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Dhaka

Speakers at a discussion here on Friday said that strict compliance of existing laws can protect environment and halt atmospheric degradations.

"Though there are laws in the country against cutting of hills, felling of trees and encroachment of river banks and water bodies, but in absence of proper execution of those laws environmental degradation could not be stopped," they said.

Besides, they said climate change has become a global issue and a global cry and, as such it should be arrested through international efforts.

The speakers were taking part at a discussion on "Role of Mass Media in Arresting Natural Calamity and Climate Change" organised by Manobadhikar O Paribesh Sangabadik Society (MAPSAS) in observance of International Environment Day at the Jatiya Press Club.

Former Advisor of the Caretaker Government Dr Akbar Ali Khan attended the function as the chief guest and ex-chairman of Transparency International, Bangladesh (TIB) Professor Muzaffar Ahmed was the main speaker while former Information Secretary Syed Marghub Morshed presided.

Former joint secretary of Bangladesh Awami League Muzaffar Hossain Paltu, Managing Editor of Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha (BSS), Azizul Islam Bhuyian, former lawmakers Dr. Motiur Rahman and Jamal Hossain, MAPSAS Advisor Bidhut Chowdhury and noted TV personality Kona Reja and Peer of Charmonai Allama Syedi Ridwan- bin-Ishaq were present as special guests. Organization's secretary general Mohammad Golam Rabbani Jamail presented the keynote paper.

Dr Akabar Ali Khan said grave devastations, even more dangerous than economic and natural calamities would engulf the earth unless cry of 'Climate Change' effects and 'Environmental Degradations' could be successfully asserted.

"Bangladesh is passing through a worst ever crucial stage of its history because of the impending threat of climate change," he said. In this connection he referred to possible sea level rise that would render hundreds of thousands of people homeless and made internal refugees in their own homeland.

Prof. Muzaffar Ahmed said the civil society members have started movement for protection of environment from at least 15 years back. But the government did not pay heed to that cry, he added.

He said the people with abject poverty would be the worst- hit owing to environmental degradation although the rich people are much more responsible for environmental pollutions.

In his presidential speech Syed Marghub Morshed said there is no alternative to strict implementation of related laws for halting environmental degradations in the country. He also lauded the role of journalists in creating awareness among the people and the policy planners about the impending danger of climate change and environmental degradations.

The discussions over, Maulana Bhashani Awards and Citations were distributed among distinguished personalities for their invaluable contributions in different disciplines of the national life.