A new forest has emerged on land designated for the country's largest economic zone, the Special Economic Zone in Mirsarai, Chittagong. Thousands of trees were cut down for the economic zone, but a significant portion of the land remains unused. From the stumps and seeds of the cut trees, a new forest has grown. The Forest Department is now seeking the return of 4,104 acres of this unused land.
The Special Economic Zone, covering 33,805 acres, is the largest in the country. While some industries have started operations, a large part of the area has turned into a forest. The Forest Department, Bangladesh Economic Zones Authority (BEZA), and local residents have confirmed that many trees were cut down for the economic zone, but industrial activities have not yet begun on much of the land. Various plants, including guava, keora, and hargozas, have grown on this land, providing habitat for deer, snakes, and rare marine and aquatic birds.
The Forest Department argues that the 4,104 acres of unused land can absorb carbon emissions from the economic zone and act as a natural shield against coastal flooding and cyclones. The department has been in correspondence with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change since January 11, seeking the return of this land.
BEZA claims that 142 investor institutions have been allocated 4,800 acres of land in the Special Economic Zone, with factories being built on 600 acres. The government aims to create 1.5 million jobs and generate $15 billion in export earnings from this economic zone. However, despite the start of establishment activities over a decade ago, the progress has not met expectations. Many investor institutions have abandoned their allocated land, leading to the regrowth of vegetation.
The Forest Department's report indicates that out of the 22,335 acres initially designated as protected forest land, 18,235 acres are being developed by BEZA, while 4,104 acres remain forested. The department is seeking the return of this forested land, citing its ecological importance.
