Dhaka, April 13, 2026 — Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Abdul Awal Mintoo has announced plans to expand tree plantation in coastal and char areas and take action to recover encroached forest land.
He made the remarks at a meeting with Forest Department officials at its headquarters in Agargaon. State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam was also present.
The minister directed officials to submit written reports on field-level challenges, which will be used to prepare a coordinated plan to strengthen forest conservation and prevent deforestation.
The state minister emphasized accurate data collection on encroached forest areas, adding that ongoing operations to curb piracy in the Sundarbans will continue.
Senior officials, including Chief Conservator of Forests Md Amir Hossain Chowdhury, attended the meeting.
