Experts at a press conference in Rajshahi on Sunday called for the immediate protection of existing rivers and wetlands, describing them as lifelines for public health, agriculture, and food security.
They warned that uncontrolled and unplanned management of solid and liquid waste in Rajshahi city has caused severe pollution, encroachment, and environmental degradation of nearby rivers, wetlands, and other water bodies.
The conference was organized by the Bangladesh Resource Centre for Indigenous Knowledge (BARCIK) at its regional resource centre in Baya under Paba Upazila, with support from the Agroecology Fund, Varendra Youth Forum, and Green Coalition.
BARCIK Regional Coordinator Shahidul Islam presented an observational policy brief, while environmental activist Mahbub Siddiqui spoke on urban rivers and related ecological challenges. Varendra Youth Forum President Atikur Rahman and Paba Upazila Green Coalition President Rahima Khatun also addressed the gathering.
Shahidul Islam highlighted that toxic waste from Rajshahi city is creating a serious crisis for the Nabaganga, Barahi, and Barnai rivers, along with connected canals and wetlands. He said the pollution is undermining safe food production, livelihoods, and public health.
Policy recommendations on solid and liquid waste management were also presented at the conference.
Mahbub Siddiqui cautioned that without immediate and coordinated action, the situation could escalate into a long-term environmental, agricultural, and public health disaster for Rajshahi. He warned that the greater Barendra region may face ecological collapse if current trends continue.
Field observations indicate that vast quantities of untreated liquid waste are discharged daily through city drains and canals. Plastic waste and other non-biodegradable toxic substances are further aggravating the crisis, he added.
Rivers and canals originating from the Padma River—including the Swarmangala, Barahi, and Nabaganga—have gradually deteriorated. Many have effectively been converted into drainage channels due to urban engineering interventions, leaving younger generations unaware of their historical significance.
Experts stressed that these rivers and wetlands underpin the region’s agriculture, biodiversity, food security, and overall human well-being. They warned of far-reaching environmental and public health consequences if current practices persist.
The organizers demanded the immediate installation and operation of a modern Sewage Treatment Plant (STP); treatment of all liquid waste before discharge; mandatory Effluent Treatment Plants (ETP) for industries, hospitals, and commercial establishments; strict monitoring and legal action against polluters; closure of direct drain connections to rivers and wetlands; and the formation of an independent investigation committee.
