Poribesh Bachao Andolon (PABA) has issued a statement advocating for free public access to government parks following a recent increase in entrance fees at several prominent parks across the country.
The statement, signed by General Secretary Mesbah Uddin Ahmed Sumon on Saturday, criticises the fivefold hike in entrance fees at parks including the National Botanical Garden and Baldha Garden in Dhaka, Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park (also known as Dulahazara Safari Park) in Cox's Bazar, Lawachara National Park in Moulvibazar, Satchari National Park in Habiganj, Banshkhali Eco Park in Chattogram, and Mymensingh Madhutila Eco Park.
Describing the move as detrimental and anti-people, the Environment, Forestry, and Climate Change Ministry's Forest Division-1 has also condemned the fee hike.
PABA leaders highlighted the importance of public parks as essential spaces for physical exercise, recreation, and community bonding, especially in urban areas like Dhaka where such spaces are limited and increasingly controlled.
They argued that commercial decisions like imposing and raising entrance fees exclude young people, students, and the economically disadvantaged from accessing these vital public resources.
Citing Article 15(c) of the Constitution of Bangladesh, which guarantees citizens' rights to leisure and recreation, PABA urged the government to ensure free access to parks, lakes, and gardens as an investment in the physical and mental well-being of future generations.
