The government has cancelled plans to use more than 4,000 hectares of forest land for development, a move that conservationists say brings new hope for fragile ecosystems and the people who depend on them. The decision covers about 3,830 hectares on biodiversity-rich Sonadia Island and roughly 293 hectares of coastal hill forest in the Cox’s Bazar area, lands that had been eyed for projects like ecotourism sites, training facilities and sports academies. Sonadia is a key nesting site for marine turtles and a refuge for migratory birds, dolphins and other wildlife, and saving that land can protect these species and the coastal food chain. Officials also announced the cancellation of a planned safari park in Moulvibazar, noting that such projects can damage forest ecology and harm rare animals found in the area. Conservation leaders said the move shows a shift toward returning forest land to natural use and away from short-term development that fragments habitats. Bangladesh holds about 2.5 million hectares of tropical forest, roughly ten percent of the country, and many patches have been harmed by past land use changes, infrastructure and settlement. Authorities say they intend to recover encroached areas and plan the best types of trees for replanting so recovered land supports diverse life and resilient forests. The change was welcomed by local groups who have long asked for clearer protection, and by officials who say stronger safeguards and careful planning can give communities steady benefits from forests without clearing them. Experts point out that forests help control floods, store water, support fisheries and offer jobs through responsible, nature-friendly tourism and forestry work. The article notes past pressures on forests, from rail and road projects that altered animal routes to emergency settlements and fuelwood use that reduced forest cover in some districts, and it encourages measuring the effects of development before moving ahead. Looking ahead, the emphasis is on combining protection with fair plans that involve local people, build small green enterprises and restore habitats so wildlife can return. Simple steps like mapping sensitive zones, holding local consultations, choosing low-impact tourism ideas and planting native tree mixes can help. The decision to cancel the large land allocations sends a clear signal that forests are valuable and that there are practical ways to keep nature and people thriving together through careful planning, recovery work and steady community support.
