Chattogram launches a month-long drive to plant 10,000 trees at DC Park, aiming to boost biodiversity, create a climate-resilient green space, and improve air quality for residents across the city.
Chattogram’s Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Zahidul Islam Mia on Saturday (April 4) launched a major tree-planting campaign at DC Park in Sitakunda, aiming to plant more than 10,000 trees within a month as part of efforts to promote environmental protection and sustainable development.
Chattogram, formerly known as Chittagong, is Bangladesh’s second-largest city and its main seaport, located in the southeastern region along the Bay of Bengal.
At the inauguration, the district administrator said the initiative is intended to transform DC Park into a model eco-friendly and climate-resilient public space. A total of over 10,000 trees from 54 species will be planted, with 2,000 saplings already planted on the opening day.
The project combines nature and modern planning, with authorities aiming to create a green and cool environment alongside technological enhancements. Officials say the park will serve both as a recreational space and a long-term environmental asset for future generations.
Zahidul Islam Mia said Krishnachura and Sonalu trees will be planted around the park to enhance its beauty, including its appearance from above. A fruit garden will also be developed in the northern section, featuring trees such as jamun, guava and jackfruit. This is expected to attract birds and allow visitors to enjoy a more natural setting.
The programme also includes planting coastal-suitable species as well as medicinal and rare plants to ensure biodiversity and resilience.
The deputy commissioner said the initiative aims to ensure clean air, reduce pollution and provide a safe and healthy recreational space for families. He added that both district and upazila administrations are working together to create an environment where people can spend quality time close to nature.
He noted that DC Park has already attracted attention nationwide and is being developed as a balanced ecological park. Referring to a recent flower festival, he said 140 species of flowers were displayed, drawing widespread interest. Visitors’ feedback is being considered in future development plans.
Before joining in Chattogram, Zahidul Islam Mia served as Deputy Commissioner of Narayanganj, where he led the “Green and Clean Narayanganj” campaign. Under that initiative, around 100,000 trees were planted within two months across upazilas, roads, educational institutions and open spaces. The programme, which included fruit, forest and medicinal plants, is considered a successful model for environmental conservation in Bangladesh.
Officials said the current initiative aligns with the government’s plan to plant 250 million trees over five years. The programme is expected to help restore lost forest areas caused by urbanisation and industrialisation while maintaining ecological balance.
Among those present at the event were Additional Deputy Commissioner (General) Md Sharif Uddin, Additional Deputy Commissioner (Revenue) Sakhawat Jamil Soikot, Sitakunda Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Fakhrul Islam, Assistant Commissioner (Land) Abdullah Al Mamun and Chandgaon Circle Assistant Commissioner (Land) Plabon Kumar Biswas, along with other officials.
