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DHAKA, Jan 28, 2025 (BSS) - Environment, Forest and Climate Change adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today warned that strict punitive measures would be taken against those involved in attack on a director of the Department of Environment (DoE) during an anti-polythene drive.

Condemning strongly the attack, she said six people have already been arrested based on video evidence, and efforts are underway to bring the remaining accused to justice.

Rizwana Hasan visited the residence of the injured DoE director Md Shawkat Ali to inquire about his health.

During the visit, Secretary of the Ministry Dr. Farhina Ahmed, DoE Director General Dr. Md. Kamruzamman and other officials were present.

The adviser discussed the director's treatment with him and his family and assured them of all necessary support.

She stated, "Obstacles will arise while working for the country's betterment, but we must continue our efforts with renewed determination. Legal actions against those involved in the illegal production and distribution of polythene will continue."

Earlier, Rizwana addressed a discussion at the ministry’s conference room at the Secretariat on “Ecotourism, Biodiversity, and Protection of Natural Resources.”

In her speech, she emphasised the need for eco-friendly tourism development and announced plans to formulate separate ecotourism guidelines for forests, rivers, wetlands and coastal areas.

 A working group will be formed promptly to determine the next course of action for promoting sustainable tourism.

The meeting was attended by Environment Secretary Dr. Farhina Ahmed, Civil Aviation and Tourism Secretary Nasreen Jahan, DoE Director General Dr. Md. Kamruzamman, CEO of Bangladesh Tourism Board Abu Taher Mohammad Jaber, and other senior officials.