Ahead of the February 12 election, activists urge candidates to pledge protection for forests, wildlife and Kaptai Lake as deforestation and encroachment intensify in the Chittagong Hill Tracts region wide.
The rich biodiversity of the Chittagong Hill Tracts is under severe threat from illegal deforestation, encroachment and the conversion of natural forests into fruit orchards, environmental experts and local leaders warn. Ahead of Bangladesh’s 13th general election on February 12, activists are urging candidates to make specific commitments in their manifestos to protect the environment, local ecosystems and wildlife.
According to the latest Rangamati district election office data, there are 509,267 registered voters in the constituency, including 263,410 men, 245,855 women and two transgender voters. Local residents expect candidates not only to compete for political power but also to commit to protecting the natural heritage of the hills.
Voters are calling for leaders who will ensure sustainable development while safeguarding forests, wetlands and wildlife, recognizing that the future of the Chittagong Hill Tracts depends on balancing human needs with environmental protection.
According to the Forest Department, several protected areas, including the Sangu-Matamuhuri virgin forests in Bandarban and wildlife sanctuaries in Kachalong, Raikhyong and Pablakhali in Rangamati, are facing existential challenges. Illegal logging and land grabs have significantly reduced these forested areas, threatening local climate stability, water resources and biodiversity.
Md Omar Faruk, president of the Anti-Corruption Committee (DuPrak) in Rangamati district, highlighted the deteriorating condition of Kaptai Lake. He said, “Due to encroachment and pollution, Kaptai Lake is in a critical state. Nearly 5,000 households in Rangamati town have occupied parts of the lake, possible only with political support. Forty percent of the city’s sewage flows directly into the lake, which is the source of drinking water managed by the Public Health Engineering Department.”
Faruk also stressed the human cost of poor water management, citing studies showing that mismanaged water and sanitation systems contribute to nearly 272,000 deaths annually in Bangladesh. He called on political parties to include measurable environmental goals in their election pledges, not just promises.
Environmentalist Rico Chakma, organizer of Nature and Biodiversity of CHT, added, “Candidates are focusing primarily on infrastructure development. But their manifestos must include clear plans to sustainably manage Kaptai Lake and prevent its continued encroachment and pollution.”
Development activist Nuku Chakma noted the presence of many rare and endangered species in the region. He said, “With responsible leadership, it is possible to protect biodiversity and preserve Kaptai Lake while pursuing development.”
Sohanur Rahman, Executive Coordinator of YouthNet Global, emphasized that environmental protection in Bangladesh is closely tied to preserving biodiversity. He said, “Every species plays a role in nature and it is our responsibility to ensure their survival. Protecting forests and wetlands is not just about conserving wildlife, it is about safeguarding our climate, water resources and food security.”
