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) 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 8th October, Thursday, 2020 at Mongla, Bagerhat. The event aimed to inform and share the necessity of protecting rivers, and water bodies to ensure sustainable development in the coastal region of Bangladesh, particularly at Mongla. The event took place at the auditorium of Tiger Hotel Mongla and was participated by representatives of various local organizers, civil society members, beneficiaries, and media personnel. Upazila Nirbahi Officer inaugurated the workshop and the Principal of Mongla Government College, presided over the workshop. Representatives from the Waterkeepers Bangladesh, S M Arafat (Manager, Research, and Implementation) was present as a special guest.

The discussion unveils some pressing demands to protect the Mongla and Pashur rivers from land grabbing, pollution, and unsustainable switchgates. Participants demonstrated their concern for illegal fishing in Sundarbans using pesticides and poisons. The event was anchored by Mr. Noor Alam Sk, president of BAPA, Mongla Branch.