Photo: BSS

KHULNA, Nov 29, 2025 (BSS) - The Ali Banda Eco-Tourism Centre, located under the Sharankhola Range of the East Sundarbans Forest Division, has officially opened to visitors following the release of deer into its enclosure.

Forest officials said a scenic watchtower and a one-kilometre concrete foot trail have been constructed at the centre to allow tourists to enjoy the natural beauty of the Sundarbans. 

The centre could not be fully opened earlier due to the absence of deer. On Friday at noon, five spotted deer were released into the enclosure, attracting visitors' attention and enthusiasm.

However, some tourists expressed hesitation to visit the centre following the imposition of an additional Tk 300 revenue charge per person. They suggested that the Forest Department set an entry fee similar to Karamjal, where visitors are charged Tk 40.

Md Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the East Sundarbans Forest Division, said the centre is now fully open to tourists with the release of the spotted deer. 

He added that the issue of reducing the entry fee will be discussed with the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change in response to visitors' demands.