The Forest Department has announced a three-month complete ban on entry to the Sundarbans, starting June 1, to safeguard the forest's fragile biodiversity, wildlife, and fish breeding cycles.
The restriction, which runs until August 31, completely bars tourists, fishermen, Bawalis (woodcutters), and Mawalis (honey collectors) from entering the world's largest mangrove forest. No movement passes or permits will be issued during this window.
According to forest officials, June to August marks the peak breeding season for most of the forest’s wildlife and aquatic species. During this time, fish deposit eggs in the network of rivers and canals, wildlife reproduces, and new plant seedlings germinate undisturbed. The entry of tourist engine boats and forest workers heavily disrupts these natural habitats.
"Giving the forest an uninterrupted environment for three months dramatically improves the fish population and wildlife reproduction, enriching the overall ecological balance," said a senior forest official.
However, the ban inevitably triggers a severe financial crisis for thousands of coastal families who rely entirely on the mangrove's resources.
"A three-month closure means total hardship for us," said Jamal Hossain, a crab fisherman from Burigoalini. Another local fisherman, Anisur, noted that many are forced to take high-interest loans from NGOs just to buy food during the off-season. Tourism operators face a similar crunch, with trawler owners and crew members left entirely without work.
To cushion the blow, the Forest Department and the Department of Fisheries are reportedly coordinating government food aid for registered forest-dependent workers.
Strict security measures are already being deployed to prevent trespassing. Fazlul Haque, the Burigoalini Station Officer of the Forest Department, stated that the forest will reopen on September 1. In the meantime, the Forest Department, Coast Guard, Naval Police, and Fisheries Department will conduct joint patrols to enforce the ban and protect the reserve from illegal entry.
