Coastal region requires attention to the goals that are set to achieve environmental protection and sustainable use of natural resources. In this need, the Blue Planet Initiative (BPI) has introduced a project in 2020 under the title“Sustainable Development in the Coastal Areas of Bangladesh”. Assisted by this project, Waterkeepers Bangladesh and Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) are jointly working for community mobilization and capacity building to protect the rivers and wetlands in the coastal areas of Bangladesh.  In line with the target, a day-long workshop was conducted on 12th October, 2020 at Maheshkhali, Cox's Bazar. The event aimed to inform and share the necessity of protecting rivers, and waterbodies to ensure sustainable development in the coastal region of Bangladesh, particularly at Maheshkhali. The event took place at the auditorium of Yunuskhali High School and was participated by representatives of various local organizers, civil society members, beneficiaries, and media personnel. Upazila Chairman inaugurated and presided over the workshop. Representatives from the Waterkeepers Bangladesh, S M Arafat, Manager (Research, and Implementation) was present as a special guest.

The discussant at Moheshkhali shows their serious concern about the Kohelia River which is about to die due to the Matarbari Coal Powerplant.