BURT plants hope through Project Jibon 2.0
On 22nd August, Brac University’s Response Team (BURT) volunteers successfully planted over 200 saplings in Uttara as part of their environmental initiative, Project Jibon 2.0, marking a significant step towards reducing air pollution in the capital.
BracU’s relocation to Badda inspired the tree-planting campaign, where students observed increased exposure to polluted air. One of the participants, Wahid Saifullah Fida (Junior, CSE) said, “Since our club is dedicated to working for the betterment of the people in our community, we always tend to take on and initiate projects that help develop and improve our surroundings.” He noted that the campus environment appeared more vibrant due to the presence of trees and plants. The planning process involved obtaining permission from the Dhaka North City Corporation (DNCC), which facilitated the arrangement of the trees and provided ongoing support.
The team selected Uttara because they needed a location where the trees would remain safe for at least one year. Volunteers planted twelve varieties, including Neem, Bakul, Kadamba, Shiuli, Kamini, Kanchan, Radhachura, Gandharaj, Hasnahena, Jackfruit, Banyan, and Krishnachura. They planted more than two hundred trees. Their main aim was to enhance the visual appeal and increase public awareness of environmental concerns through flowering plants.
They arrived early in the morning to work together. Their challenge was ensuring compliance with government regulations. However, everything was managed successfully. Young people and children showed particular interest. The city corporation provided essential support by granting official permission, allocating space in the road median, assisting with the purchase of saplings, and pledging ongoing care.
Fida asserts, “The greatest advice that we can give to people is to just go ahead and start, even if it is a very small task.” He emphasized that meaningful work involves illuminating lives rather than seeking glorification.
