The number of deaths in lightning strikes has been rising alarmingly in Bangladesh. It seems lightning has become deadlier than ever before, especially as we continue to destroy most of our forests. Had we preserved our tall trees, they would have absorbed many of the strikes and many of those who had lost their lives could be saved. The government has decided to plant Asian palmyra palm trees (Tal) across the country so that thunderbolt casualties can be lessened.
The plan is good. Definitely if the plan is implemented the death toll will be reduced significantly. However, I would like to suggest planting of oil-producing palm trees besides traditional local palm trees. If we plant tall palm trees in rural Bangladesh, it will reduce deaths caused by lightning as well as produce palm oil for us. If implemented, it will meet the local demand of vegetable oil and also, we will be able to export it.
Palm oil is cheap and very suitable for human consumption. Its per-hectare yield is much higher than any other edible vegetable oils. It is quite possible to produce palm oil in our country. Except for the months of December and January, the tropical climate of Bangladesh is favourable for palm oil production throughout the year. The coastal areas of the country are particularly suitable for palm trees. The plants will also reduce the deaths and injuries caused by lightning.
Md Ashraf Hossain,
120, Central Bashabo, Dhaka-1214,
mah120cb@yahoo.com