The vanishing green wall of Kuakata

Kuakata, the renowned coastal tourist destination in Patuakhali, is facing a serious environmental crisis. The mangrove forests that once formed a natural green shield along its 18-kilometre coastline are rapidly disappearing, taking with them crucial "blue carbon" stores and weakening coastal protection. Two decades ago, large stretches of Kuakata's shoreline, particularly the Gangamati Reserved Forest, were covered with mangroves and coastal trees. In 2010, the government declared 1,613 hectares as Kuakata National Park to protect forests, wildlife and the coast. Today, nearly two-thirds of that forest land has been lost. Locals say the park now exists mostly on paper, with exposed sand, broken roots and dead trunks replacing the dense forest.
Mangroves store large amounts of carbon in their trees and soils, helping slow climate change. In Bangladesh, natural mangroves store between 115 and 257 tonnes of carbon per hectare, far higher than many land-based forests. When cleared, this carbon is released into the atmosphere, adding to greenhouse gas emissions. Beyond carbon storage, mangroves act as natural coastal defences. Their roots reduce erosion and weaken waves and storm surges. Without them, coasts become more vulnerable to flooding, erosion, and cyclones. Officials estimate that around 75,000 trees, including mangroves, coconut, palm and tamarisk, are lost annually due to erosion and tidal action.
Some initiatives, like the youth-led Green Kuakata Campaign, are raising awareness and promoting responsible tourism. Experts stress the need for stronger policy support, comprehensive coastal management, strict protection of remaining forests, mangrove restoration and community involvement. Nature-based solutions using mangroves rather than only concrete embankments can provide long-term protection. Recognising the climate value of blue carbon could also attract restoration finance. Kuakata's disappearing mangroves are a warning for all of coastal Bangladesh. Their protection is essential not only for the environment but also for climate resilience, livelihoods and the future of the coast.

Md. Tahasinul Islam
Student
Patuakhali Science and Technology University
islam.mti2021@gmail.com