With the onset of the monsoon season, the sea has become turbulent, unleashing powerful waves that steadily destroy the Jhau forests along the Cox’s Bazar coastline, particularly in the Himchari area. Once a symbol of natural beauty and a protective greenbelt, these coastal forests are now gradually vanishing under the relentless force of the sea.
Resident Yusuf shared, “Every year during the monsoon, the casuarina groves shrink further. Places where trees once stood tall are now just patches of bare land.” He added, “As soon as the sea level rises, the erosion begins. There was a time when this coastline was shaded with thick groves—now it’s all scars of destruction.”
In areas like Pechar Dwip of Himchari, casuarina trees are still collapsing daily under the impact of aggressive waves. The trees, once planted to protect the coast, are no longer able to withstand nature’s fury.
Locals believe that these trees not only added to the area’s natural charm but also played a vital role in shielding the coastline from erosion and extreme weather. Their destruction, they fear, could leave coastal communities more vulnerable in the future.
Environmental experts warn that the ongoing erosion demands long-term intervention. They recommend better tidal water management, reinforced sand barriers, and the planting of resilient tree species to stabilize and protect the fragile coastline.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Hussain Shetu
