Photo : Collected
Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina urged engineers to embrace strategies and plans that are people-oriented, environmentally friendly, cost-effective, and sustainable to expedite the nation's development. Speaking as the chief guest at the 61st convention of the Institution of Engineers, Bangladesh (IEB) in the capital on Saturday, she emphasised the significance of prioritising environmental concerns amidst rapid development to steer the country towards prosperity. Naturally, engineers hold significant responsibility in the execution of government plans and the country's development. However, these plans must prioritize environmental sustainability. The Prime Minister herself has underscored our objective to safeguard the nation from the impacts of climate change, a task that demands constant vigilance against droughts, floods, and rising tides. Hence, it's imperative to safeguard reservoirs and implement measures to regulate the flow of water in river channels, canals, and wetland areas. Efforts should also be directed towards harvesting and utilising rainwater efficiently. Projects should prioritise effectiveness, sustainability, and community welfare, avoiding unnecessary endeavors.
We strongly advocate that any development scheme must prioritise the preservation of life, nature, and biodiversity. Additionally, agricultural land should be safeguarded from development plans, with paramount importance placed on ensuring food security. Furthermore, we are deeply concerned about the alarming impacts of global warming that are affecting us. Therefore, for our own well-being, it is imperative to emphasise the implementation of eco-friendly initiatives alongside forestry practices to safeguard wildlife and biodiversity. A prime illustration of such an approach is Hatirjheel in the capital city. This project is so eco-conscious that the residents of the capital are enjoying its benefits. Hatirjheel stands as an exemplary model for shaping any development project.
It's crucial for individuals at all levels to be cognizant and proactive in curbing the alarming rate of deforestation and the disappearance of forested areas, driven by population pressures. Rather than haphazardly clearing trees, everyone should actively engage in tree planting initiatives. In recent days, residents of the city have been enduring sweltering heat due to various factors, including the execution of numerous projects in the capital. Let's not forget that the environment lies at the core of all development endeavors. Any development endeavor that disregards or harms the environment will ultimately lack sustainability, quality, and equilibrium. Hence, it's imperative that environmental considerations take precedence in all development plans, both public and private.
Messenger/Fameema
