Prohibited Tree Saplings Sold Openly in Dimla

Despite government bans and repeated warnings from environmentalists, eucalyptus and acacia (Akashmoni) tree saplings are being openly sold in Dimla, Nilphamari. These saplings are available in various local markets, roadside stalls, and nurseries, raising concerns among environmentally conscious citizens and civil society representatives.

Recent visits to markets such as Colony Bazar, Dangarhat, Ekta Bazar, Dalia New Market, Chapanirhat, Nautara Bazar, and Shutibari Bazar revealed that nurseries and vendors are openly selling eucalyptus and acacia saplings. On May 15, 2024, the Ministry of Environment, Forest, and Climate Change issued a notification declaring these trees as "invasive species" and banned their production, planting, and sale. The notification stated that, to protect the environment, ecosystems, and biodiversity, the production, planting, and sale of eucalyptus and acacia saplings are prohibited at government, non-government, and individual levels. However, these banned saplings continue to be sold freely in Dimla’s markets. A vendor at Chapanirhat Bazar said, “People demand these trees, and I brought the saplings earlier. If I don’t sell them now, I’ll face losses. No one is stopping us.” Meanwhile, a farmer noted, “These trees grow quickly, so we plant them. But I’ve heard they harm nearby plants.” Local farmer Josim Uddin shared, “Last year, I planted 50 eucalyptus trees on my land. This year, the water in my nearby paddy field isn’t staying. I later realized these trees are drying up the groundwater.” Another farmer, Roknuzzaman, added, “These trees grow fast, and their wood sells for a profit. But nearby plants are dying, and fruit trees aren’t bearing fruit. Now I understand they cause more harm than good.” Environmentalists warn that eucalyptus trees deplete groundwater and reduce soil fertility, while chemicals released by acacia trees hinder the growth of surrounding plants, threatening biodiversity. According to a 2023 study by the Bangladesh Forest Research Institute (BFRI), a mature eucalyptus tree absorbs 90 to 120 liters of groundwater annually. Areas with these trees have seen up to a 30% reduction in biodiversity, and groundwater levels in 45 districts have dropped by an average of 1.8 meters. Shahidul Islam, president of the Nilphamari Environmental Movement, said, “If the sale of these saplings isn’t stopped, groundwater levels will drop drastically in the future. A ban on paper alone isn’t enough; the administration must enforce it on the ground.” Mahmud Hasan, coordinator of the Nilphamari Environment Conservation Forum, warned, “These trees are creating a ‘green desert’ in the environment. If not controlled now, they will lead to severe water shortages and agricultural disasters.” Rezaul Karim, Dimla Beat Officer of the Rangpur Forest Department, stated, “No nurseries under the forest department’s jurisdiction are producing or selling eucalyptus or acacia saplings.” Upazila Agriculture Officer Meer Hasan Al Banna emphasized, “Coordinated efforts from various departments and active public participation are essential to enforce this ban.” Upazila Executive Officer (UNO) Imranuzzaman assured, “Necessary steps will be taken to stop the production and sale of banned tree saplings. Emphasis will also be placed on awareness campaigns and public education.” He added, “Encouraging people to plant eco-friendly trees is key to maintaining nature’s balance.”