Experts at a press conference here today urged immediate protection of existing rivers and wetlands, describing them as lifelines for public health, agriculture, and food security.

They warned that uncontrolled and unplanned management of solid and liquid waste in Rajshahi city has led to severe pollution, encroachment, and environmental degradation of adjacent rivers, wetlands, and water bodies.

The conference was organized by the Bangladesh Resource Centre for Indigenous Knowledge (BARCIK) at its regional resource centre at Baya under Paba Upazila, with support from the Agroecology Fund, Varendra Youth Forum, and Green Coalition.

BARCIK regional coordinator Shahidul Islam presented an observational policy brief, while Mahbub Siddiqui spoke on urban rivers and environmental issues. 

Varendra Youth Forum President Atikur Rahman and Paba Upazila Green Coalition President Rahima Khatun also addressed the gathering.