by A 20-year ‘Sundarbans Ecotourism Masterplan (2025-2045)’ has been formulated to increase the attraction of domestic and foreign tourists while maintaining the natural balance of the world’s largest mangrove forest, the Sundarbans.The concerned believe that if this masterplan is implemented, it will not only give a new impetus to tourism, but also to biodiversity conservation and the local economy.
The main goal of the project is to create a long-term roadmap for sustainable tourism without damaging the natural ecosystem of the Sundarbans. This is not a simple infrastructural development, but rather a planned framework to maintain a balance between tourism and the environment.
The plan has been prepared by the Forest Department and the international organization Solymar International with the financial and technical assistance of the United States Development Agency USAID. Professor of Forestry and Wood Technology Discipline of Khulna University Dr. Md. The plan was formulated for about two years under the leadership of Wasiul Islam.
Dr. Wasiul Islam said, “This masterplan has been prepared by integrating the environment of the Sundarbans and the local economy. As a result, on the one hand, it will create opportunities to earn foreign exchange, and on the other hand, the livelihood of the locals will be sustainable.”
He said, “Foreign tourists come to enjoy the silence, natural beauty and luminous nights of the Sundarbans. To further enrich that experience, emphasis has been placed on controlled, responsible and environmentally friendly tourism.”
One of the features of the masterplan is the community-based ecotourism model.
The plan has been prepared based on the opinions of local residents, the Forest Department, the Department of Environment, universities, tourist police, Mongla Port, local administration and tour operators.
Dr. Wasiul said, “There will be no scope for conflict or dissatisfaction as a result of involving the local people. They will be directly involved in tourism management and will benefit economically.”
The plan proposes to reduce dependence on forest resources and create alternative livelihood opportunities.
In addition, more than 200 eco-guides have been trained, who will work to ensure the safety of tourists as well as reduce human-wildlife conflict.
The staff of the eco-cottages set up in the Dakop area have also been given hospitality and service training, so that the relationship between tourists and locals is more friendly.
For the smooth management of tourists, the plan recommends setting up information centers at three main entry points—Mongla, Munshiganj and Sharankhola.
Boat rentals, eco-guide recruitment and community-based tourism facilities will be available from these centers.
Conservator of Forests Imran Ahmed said that about two lakh tourists visit the Sundarbans every year. “Controlling this large number of tourists and ensuring waste management is a big challenge,” he said.However, he expressed hope that this master plan will encourage responsible tourism without harming the environment.
Villagers around the Sundarbans said that while there were allegations of irregularities in some previous private cottages, the new plan will ensure discipline and transparency due to government supervision.
The plan is currently awaiting approval from the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change.
Those concerned say that if it is implemented, the Sundarbans will develop into one of the most sustainable ecotourism models not only in Bangladesh but also in the world – which will open new horizons in conserving local biodiversity, reducing poverty and earning foreign exchange.
Source: BSS
