Join the Habiganj Bicycle Rally: Pedal for Climate Justice and Fair Loan Compensation!

Environmentalists and local residents in Habiganj recently organized a bicycle rally and street meeting to advocate for climate justice. They are calling for appropriate compensation for environmental damages instead of relying on loans that simply add to debt.

The event was led by groups like Dhoritri Rokkhay Amra (Dhora) Habiganj, Khowai River Waterkeepers, and Waterkeepers Bangladesh. Their goal was to shine a light on the severe consequences of climate change that are affecting their community.

The rally kicked off at around 11:00 AM from Rajnagar Buds KG and High School. Cyclists ventured through various parts of town before concluding their ride near Town Model Government Primary School. Over 50 participants, including members from the Planeteers Club Habiganj and the Habiganj Cycling Community, joined in.

During the gathering, retired educator Md Ikramul Wadud emphasized that loans do not address the root of the problem. “What we need is fair climate financing to cover the damages we’re facing,” he stated.

Khowai River Waterkeeper Tofazzal Sohel pointed out the alarming rise in floods, cyclones, and droughts, directly linked to harmful activities such as fossil fuel burning and deforestation. He urged the government to create a robust environmental protection plan.

Mohammad Zahirul Haque, Vice Chancellor of Metropolitan University, highlighted an uncomfortable truth: industrialized nations are mostly responsible for climate change while countries like Bangladesh suffer the consequences. He criticized the practice of offering loans instead of genuine compensation for climate-vulnerable nations.

In addition to these important views, a recent study by the Global Climate Risk Index showed that Bangladesh is among the top nations affected by extreme weather events, further validating the participants’ concerns.

Sharif Jamil, a member of Dhora and the Waterkeepers Alliance, called for immediate action, stating, “It’s not just about survival; it’s about building a sustainable future.”

The rally reflected a growing movement where many are expressing their urgency regarding climate action. Social media has become a platform for sharing personal stories and statistics about climate impacts, reinforcing the community’s call for change.

In summary, the bike rally in Habiganj was not just a local event; it’s a part of a larger narrative advocating for climate justice and sustainable futures worldwide.



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