By Shahinur Rahman from Singair, Manikganj
A community dialogue on ensuring traditional and equitable access to natural resources was recently held at Boro Kaliakoir Bazar in Baldhara Union of Singair Upazila. The event was organized by Boro Kaliakoir Rural Development Youth Association and the Union Green Coalition with support from BARCIK.
Participants of the dialogue said that rivers, canals, wetlands, and forests are common natural resources to which all people have equal rights. Speakers called for sustainable management of natural resources and the protection of traditional access rights for marginalized communities.
The discussion focused on the importance of restoring the Kaliganga and Nurani Ganga rivers by freeing them from pollution and encroachment, as local farmers, fishers, and boatmen depend on these rivers for their livelihoods.
Participants also stressed the need to conserve large trees, promote nature-based farming practices, reduce the use of chemical fertilizers and pesticides, and stop brick kilns and topsoil extraction from agricultural land.
