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Haor regions of Bangladesh are endowed with unique natural beauty.
Their canals, beels, rivers, haors, flourishing fauna, pollinating insects, chirping indigenous birds, migratory birds, are all fascinating.
Amidst this amazing Haor region stands the enchanting Ratargul.
Ratargul is situated on the South of Gowain River, flowing by Fatehpur Union of Gowainghat Upazila of Sylhet District.
Of its total area of 3,325 acres, 504 acres are covered with forest.
In 2015 it was declared as a Protected Area.
There are small water bodies inside Ratargul.
In winter Ratargul becomes almost dry.
Only the water bodies retain some water.
The plants become a bit dull.
In Monsoon it experiences heavy rainfall.
Incessant rain brings back life to Ratargul Protected Area.
At some point, the forest and the whole Ratargul area become submerged.
The immersion continues for 4 to 5 months.
At this time, the water retains an average depth of 15 feet.
It is above 35 feet in some places as well.
The waterlogged trees stand tall in the flooded plain.
Mango pine is prominent in this forest.
Many other trees like Indian Beech, Sacred Garlic Pear and False White Teak are also available.
These plants cover the top of the forest.
Lower level plants comprise of several plant species like Cool Mat.
Cool Mat remains almost submerged in monsoon.
Cool Mat is an important commercial plant of this region.
Locally it is also known as Rata plant.
These plants thrive in fresh water and are very scenic.
Which has famed Ratargul as the Freshwater Swamp Forest.
Many people think of it as the Amazon of Bangladesh.
During monsoon various animal species find shelter in the forest trees.
For habitation and reproduction of various species of fish and aquatic animals the trees are significant.
The wild animals find refuge on the branches and leaves of its plants.
Different bird species are found in the plants.
Various bird species like Egret, Little cormorant, Kestrel, Bulbul, Dove, Bee-eater, King Fisher roam in Ratargul.
The King Fisher is often seen perched for prey.
Snatching it at the first sight.
Kites also roam the Ratargul sky for prey.
Their chirpings make the forest resonant.
In monsoon various Reptiles like Snake and Lizard find refuge in the trees.
Keelback and Monitor Lizards swim in the water.
Other snakes are also available.
Sometimes, for rest or for food they turn to the trees.
Because the insects or frogs, which comprise the Snake’s diet, mostly found in the trees.
Various Frog species are found here.
Whether predator or prey, they maintain the Food Cycle.
As a result, the natural balance is maintained.
Subsequently, the individuality of Ratargul Protected Area has sustained throughout the ages.
As well as its beauty and biodiversity.
Numerous tourists visit Ratargul in monsoon to enjoy this exceptional beauty.
And become delighted for its fascinating appeal.
With draining monsoon water, animals like fox, mongoose and civet roam here.
They too play a vital role in the forest ecosystem.
Bu, excessive tourism and their irresponsible behavior are causing negative impact on Ratargul.
Bird hunting is common in different parts of Ratargul.
Tree felling too is rampant.
Excessive extraction of natural resources has also damaged the ecosystem of Ratargul Protected Area.
Therefore, proper steps have to be taken to flourish tourism business by ensuring a sustainable and ecofriendly tourism.
Only then the natural balance of Ratargul Protected Area will sustain.