There are no room for argument that protecting Sundarban is pivotal for Bangladesh. We all want to protect Sundorban- its unique ecosystem, environment and wildlife. However the conservation of Sundorban does not mean a complete negative approach to economic development. It is about finding a balanced practical solution between economic prosperity and sustainability. Effective use of resources for good through the help of science and effective safeguard mechanism. It is foolish even to suggest that conservation of Sundorban is just about saving its wildlife. Because Its not. Its about creating a harmonious interaction between nature and its inhabitants which could be achieved through careful development approach.

Bangladesh is not the same as it was 15-20 years ago. It is not considered as one of the most poverty stricken country in the world anymore. Bangladesh has become a model for economic and human resource development . Bangladesh is on move to prosperity. We are the emerging Tiger of Asia. We have created a Renaissance of economic development with an annual GDP growth exceeding 7% regularly which lead us to a comfortable lifestyle and a high demand for power supply. Only 28% of our total population is living under poverty level and 40% of our total population are deprived from electric supply. It means a 12% of the middle class do not have access to electricity let alone the underprivileged who also have every right to access to modern facility like electricity.

Throughout the history human civilizations were developed through the use of natural resources. The conservation of Sundarban and development of the Rampal power plant can co-exist. With careful management it could make a huge impact on our fight to eradicate poverty. Projects like Rampal is important to reach the next level of economic development. There should not be any illusion that Rampal is not a project for just financial gain. Its a state funded project that concentrates on people and their prosperity. It is a project for human development and it could easily go hand to hand with natural conservation.

Everyone understands that Sundarban's ecosystem is very fragile and things could go wrong very easily. There are enough signs that the government is looking for effective solution to balance electricity production and environmental protection for Sundorban. This project is carefully considered for last few years. The protection pledge has already been made by the government and the Ministry of environment. With time there would also be new regulations and policy initiatives. And the government is already working on a clear guideline to set a sustainability benchmark which could easily be achieved through promotion, regular assessment, environmental management plan and greater participation from all parties including ministry of environment, scientists, local community leaders, environmental NGO's. That's how effective conservation programs work all around the globe. The government, local community, private sector and the businesses work together to ensure the best outcome.

An alliance of socialists activists ( Well I do not really consider them as political parties as they were never able to show the qualities and responsibilities a political party should have. I consider them as activist groups. No Offence.) with each group consisting few dozens of members ( All their leaders and activists from the urban class and none of them from the 40% of the population who do not have access to electricity. Neither they're from the 28% who lives under poverty line) trying to create a situation in relation to Rampal power plant. These people has no commitment to development or to people. Neither they understand modern conservation method. They're still following the old way of conservation. Creating conflict. Will these ghost from Soviet Russia ever understand that modern day conservation is not based on conflict. Its a collective approach to achieve the best outcome where every penny spent on conservation delivers a better life for people.

They could chose conflict and promise the world. They can promise the world as they never have to deliver any promise. No on expects anything from them. Its a luxury Awami League never had. Unlike them, Awami League actually have to deliver. Have to comply. Have to keep up with the pace of the economic growth. People have expectation from Awami League government. Therefore, it has a more realistic approach. It is developing plans and regulations to balance development with conservation.

We must understand for economic growth we have to be able to use our resources. The advanced economies have achieved their prosperity by using their resources. We have a small country. Considering our shortage of land Rampal site is a relief. Like many other countries it is absolutely possible to maintain healthy conservation of Sundorban and sound electricity production. Its a challenge but it is achievable through collaboration between all stakeholders. Together Bangladesh can have both. A healthy environment and a healthy economy.