An awareness programme titled “Forest, Wildlife, Migratory Birds, Biodiversity Conservation and Fire Prevention in Dry Seasonal Forests” was held at Goromchhari Government Primary School under the Rashidpur Beat of the Kalenga Range in Habiganj on Friday (15 November). The event was organized by the Sylhet Forest Department and presided over by Abul Hashem Sarkar, President of the Kalenga CMC.

Habiganj Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) Md. Joynal Abedin attended the event as the chief guest. In his address, he said, “Hunting wildlife is a punishable offense. Anyone involved in such activities will certainly face legal consequences. Forests and wildlife are inseparably linked with human existence—therefore, CPG members and villagers must work together.” He also stressed the importance of immediate action by locals and timely reporting to the Forest Department to prevent forest fires during the dry season.

Special guests included Kalenga Beat Officer Md. Al Amin, Chanbari Beat Officer Md. Titumir Pathan and environmental activist Robi Costa. The welcome speech was delivered by Rashidpur Beat Officer Rizuvi Biswas, while the programme was moderated by Kalenga Range Officer Md. Abdul Khalek.

Environmental activist Robi Costa presented the keynote paper, stating, “Forest fires during the dry season pose a severe threat. A single careless act can destroy thousands of hectares of forestland—along with habitats of migratory birds, elephants, tigers, and numerous other wildlife species. Village-based ‘fire prevention teams’ and community training on fire control are urgently needed.”

In his remarks, environmental activist Md. Khalek Mia said, “Local community participation is crucial for protecting biodiversity. If we lose dozens of species of migratory birds every year, our agricultural system and food chain will be seriously disrupted.” He proposed launching a “Forest Guardian” initiative to strengthen awareness among beneficiaries of social forestry programmes.

Local dignitaries, CMC members, VCF members, social forestry beneficiaries, People’s Forum representatives, and residents were present at the event. Speakers emphasized village-level awareness, preventing migratory bird hunting, wildlife protection, and collective action to safeguard forest ecosystems.

At the end of the programme, participants pledged to work together for forest conservation.