GEO-ENVIRONMENTAL AND BIOLOGICAL ASPECTS OF

SITAKUNDA

Submitted by:

Md. Bodrud-Doza

1st Year Session: 2009-10

Dept. of Environmental Sciences, JU

Abstract

Geologically Sitakunda is one of the westernmost structures of Chittagong and Chittagong

Hill Tracts, dilimited by the Feni River in the north, the Karnaphuli River in the south, the

Halda River in the east and the Sandwip Channel in the west. The Sitakunda fold is an

elongated, asymetrical, box type double plunging anticline whose axis is running from NNW

to SSW, which is the general trend of the regional strike. For a lack of infrastructure in

Bangladesh, this anticline is one of the few regularly surveyed structures in the country. The

syncline of Sitakunda separates the eastern end of the Feni structure located in the folded

flank of the Bengal Fore deep. The structure contains a thick sedimentary sequence (except

limestone) of sand stone; shale and siltstone provide no difference in overall lithology of

Chittagong and Chittagong Hill Tracts. Proper geological study of this region may help a lot

to understand the anticline-syncline concept as well as other basic principles of structural

geology. Biodiversity and biogeochemical cycles may help a student to identify the close

relationship between geology, biology, hydrology and other specialized branches of science.

A very significant objective of our field work in this region might be to realize that how we

are creating problems for us by cutting hilly regions to create plane land and by destructing

forests.

The Sandwip channel is situated in the eastern part of Sitakunda Upazilla as well as our base

camp. The vast coastal flooded plane exhibits the trend of sedimentary deposition of the

geological history. A very significant part of Sandwip channel is the dense coastal green belt

region.

The Labanakkhaya Chara and surrounding region is a very significant example of

deformation of rocks and structural aspects of geology. The Labanakkhaya water fall is a

striking example of landslide, fault and erosion.

As a student of environmental sciences, our tribute was to find out the natural processes and

their impact on biodiversity and sustainability. For this reason, we took various water sample,

rock sample, plant sample and soil sample. By analyzing those samples, we might find some

interesting information about this region. While visiting those places, we talked to many local

people and local expertise about weather, climate, local culture, lithology etc. At the final day

of our fieldtrip, we went to pay a visit to a ship breaking industry and relentless work of

workers in the industry. We talked to some local people, worker and officials. Before leaving

Chittagong, we paid a visit to the Institute of Forestry and Environmental Sciences of

Chittagong University. Teachers of Chittagong University had briefed us about their recent

research.

Acknowledgement

Practical implementation of analyzed knowledge is very important for developing the

problem solving ability of a student. Environmental science, like all other brunches of science

requires a proper practical knowledge and ability to implement knowledge in environment to

minimize possible adverse environmental degradation and maximizing possible beneficial

events. If an environmental scientist doesnt have a good knowledge about problems and possibilities in implementing environmental knowledge, he/she will have to suffer a lot.

By realizing this fact, the department of environmental sciences of Jahangirnagar University

runs a course on field work as an academic study course each year. As a student of B.sc

(hons) 1st year , we went on a field trip on the hilly region of Chittagong, Sitakunda, Sandeep

Channel, Chittagong port and some other environmentally important site of Bangladesh. Our

objectives of this trip were to identify and know various natural processes and their geo-

environmental impact on biodiversity and human life. In this trip our tribute was to know

about the geomorphology, geological structure, natural resources, flora and fauna, climatic

condition, hydrological cycle, deforestation and erosion and their relation with various

natural processes such as slide, landslide, flooding, drought etc.

First of all I would like to pay my great thanks to almighty Allah for giving me a chance to go

in such an instructive trip with my friends and teachers.

I would like to pay my profound gratitude to the authority of the department of environmental

sciences of Jahangirnaga University for arranging the fieldwork program and making

necessary arrangements. The transport authority of Jahangirnagar University as well as

Bangladesh Railway deserves hearty thanks for our safe and comfortable tour. I would like to

thank Upazila authority of Sitakunda and the authority of family planning training centre for

solving our accomodation problems.

In the last but not the least, I would like to express my profound respect and gratitude to our

honourable teacher Dr.Shafi Mohammad Tareq, Mohammad Emadul Huda, Md. Nazrul

Islam, Abdul Kadir Ibne Kamal. Without their competent supervision, it was quite impossible

to reach our goal. We would expect our teachers to be as helpful for us as we got them during

the fieldwork. And of course, thanks to my group members and all my friends for their

support and profound love. The great support of Shakawat vai can never be ignored. Really

thanks to Shakawat vai for your enormous help and patience.

Introduction

For the students of Environmental Sciences, field work is a part and parcel of academic

study. It plays a very significant role in understanding complicated environmental concepts

and their impact on biodiversity and sustainability. Bangladesh comprises a very recent

geological record comparing to its neighboring countries. Most of its areas are covered by

thick alluvial deposits of three great rivers Ganges, Brahmaputra and Jamuna. Among the

very small hilly region, the eastern part of Sylhet, Sitakunda and north-west part of

Chittagong are most important.

Sitakunda is a suitable place for the geological observation of hilly area about their lithology,

geological structure and pattern of geomorphology and accumulation of biodiversity. This

area offers an example of seeking topographic and geographic conditions including anticline,

syncline, dip, fold, fault and many other geological structures. Geological observation can be

defined as the study of different rocks, their natural environment and relationship with

various biogeochemical cycles. The Labanakkhaya saltwater hot spring is an important

example of deformation of rocks and can play an important role in studying tectonic activities

of the world and its relation with other natural processes. On the other hands, the sea shore of

Sandwip Channel is one of the most suitable places for studying sedimentary deposition and

sedimentary layering. A wide range of variety in biodiversity plays a very significant role in

understanding the biodiversity-environment relationship, food chain and food web. Important

mineral resource and other resources are also important for their productive use value and

industrial importance as raw materials.

We, the 1st year students of Environmental Sciences (session 2009-2010) of Jahangirnagar

University carried out a fieldwork from 1st to 4th December 2010. During this field work we

visited Sitakunda Botanical Garden and Eco-park, Labanakkhaya spring section, dam in the

upstream of Labanakkhaya spring, coastal belt, and flood plain of Sandwip channel sea

beach. We also visited a ship breaking industry on the way back to Dhaka. Throughout the

total field journey, we worked group wise for wrapping up our fieldwork with success. Our

teachers and of course Shakawat vai was very helpful for us throughout the journey.

Objectives

The fieldwork on geo-environmental and biological aspects of Sitakunda lies on a fact that

without having good field knowledge, it is quite impossible to understand the interaction of

nature with biodiversity and human. A very important objective of this field tour was to know

various natural processes that affect the socio-economic environment of the specific region

comprising with both biotic and abiotic factors of nature. Biodiversity deals with flora and

fauna of a region, their habitat, nature, food chain, reproduction, protection etc. Earth science

is very important for describing any environmental condition as lithosphere holds all kinds of

biotic and abiotic factors of nature. On the other hands, biodiversity is the most important

part of nature. Without them, we cant even think of a pleasant life. So we need to know well about their nature, problems and condition. In a broad sense, it deals with the Earths interior

and exterior. Theoretical concept and laboratory works are not sufficient enough to acquire

vast knowledge about this subject. According to Lyell, the present is the key to the past. It been the basic principles of geological studies carried out so far in the world and nature has

been the laboratory for a geologist.

In our field work, our main objectives were-

To gain a clear idea about the structure, stratigraphy, petrography, geological history of the Sitakunda area.

To observe the characteristics of the available exposed part of sedimentary rocks and about the environmental condition when they were deposited.

To observe the denudation process of the area.

To correlate individual section of the studied area with standard geological column.

To gain information about physiography, population, vegetation and cultivation of the area.

To know the economic mineral deposition with the rocks.

To identify the environmental conditions of Sitakunda area.

To evaluate environmental problems, pollution and their pollutant level.

And to prepare a geological map of that area from the base map.

Methodology

Methodology is a term word that always should be obey strickly,in any field work.with out

methodology an investigation of a field work cannot fulfill.The main theme of methodology

is to discipline.It also the aggregation of procedure, rules and practices.

Travers method was followed during our field work.The Ancholik Proshikkhon Kendro was

selected to our base camp.At a 1st day the stepping and spacing was used to measure

distance.then when we trun back the base camp we calculate the actual distance of

waking.while investigat we note down the important point of abiotic and biotic that lies on

the earth interior or extraeor.we also take the G.P.S reading with the altitude.some plant

species,water,soil,rock sample,root are also taken with G.P.S reading.some important photo

also be taken with G.P.S reading.this sample were investigate in laboratory to determine

environmental condition of sitakundo,

Field Equipment

Base map

Haversack

G.P.S(Global position system)

Sample bag

Sample bottle

Field note book

Cap, Pen, pencil, eraser etc

Camera

Compass

Pocket knife

Tiffin box

Sample identification slip

First aid equipment

Drinking water bottle

Water flask

Personal protection equipment

Soil sieve

Soil pH miter

Binocular

Beaker

Study area: Sitakunda Upazilla

Sitakunda (Bengali: Shitakunois an upazilla, or administrative unit, in the

Chittagong District of Bangladesh. Sitakunda is the home of the country's first eco-park, as

well as alternative energy projects, specifically wind energy and geothermal power.

Sitakunda is one of the oldest sites of human habitation in Bangladesh.

History

The legends of the area state the sage Bhargava created a pond (kunda) for Sita Devi

to bathe in when her husband Lord Ramchandra visited during his exile in the forests.

Sitakunda derived its name from this incident.

Surrounding

Sitakunda Upazila occupies an area of 483.97 square kilometres (186.86 sq mi),

which includes 61.61 square kilometres (23.79 sq mi) of forest. It is bordered by Mirsharai to

the north, Pahartali to the south, Fatickchhari, Hathazari and Panchlaish to the east, and the

Sandwip Channel in the Bay of Bengal to the west.

Topography

The Sitakunda range is a 32-kilometre (20 mi) long ridge in the center of the upazila,

which reaches an altitude of 352 metres (1,155 ft) above sea level at Chandranath or

Sitakunda peak, the highest peak in Chittagong District. To the north, Rajbari Tila at

274 metres (899 ft) and Sajidhala at 244 metres (801 ft) are the highest peaks in this range,

which drops abruptly to a height of less than 92 metres (302 ft) in the vicinity of Chittagong

City to the south. About 5 kilometres (3 mi) north of Sitakunda Town is the Labanakhya

saltwater hot spring, which has been proposed as a source of geothermal energy. There are

two waterfalls in the hills: Sahasradhara (thousand streams) and Suptadhara (hidden stream).

Hazards

An area prone to cyclones and storm surges, Sitakunda was affected by cyclones in

1960, 1963, 1970, 1988, 1991, 1994 and 1997; the cyclones of 29 May 1963, 12 November

1970, 29 April 1991 made landfall. The intra-deltaic coastline is very close to the tectonic

interface of the Indian and Burmese plates, as well as the active AndamanNicobar fault system, and is often capable of generating tsunamis.

Weather and Climate

Annual average temperature is between 32.5 C (90 F) and 13.5 C (56 F), with an

annual rainfall of 2,687 millimetres (106 in). Along with Chittagong and Hathazari, in June

2007 Sitakunda was badly affected by mudslides caused by heavy rainfall combined with the

recent practice of hill-cutting.. A small 300-watt wind turbine, built by the government,

provides electricity to fish farms.

Geology

The geological structure of Sitakunda, 70 kilometres (43 mi) long and 10 kilometres

(6 mi) wide, is one of the westernmost structures of Chittagong and Chittagong Hill Tracts,

delimited by the Feni River in the north, the Karnaphuli River in the south, the Halda River in

the east and the Sandwip Channel in the west. The Sitakunda Range acts as a water divide

between the Halda Valley and the Sandwip Channel. The 88 kilometres (55 mi) -long Halda

flows from Khagrachari to the Bay of Bangal, and is one of the six tributaries of Karnafuli,

the major river in the area. Sandwip Channel represents the northern end of the western part

of the Chittagong-Tripura Folded Belt.

Demography

According to the census of 2001, Sitakunda had a population of 298,528 distributed to

55,837 units of households (average household size 5.3), including 163,561 men and 134,967

women, or a gender ratio of 121:100. The average population of component administrative

units of the upazila are 4,072 for wards, 1,666 for mahallas, 29,853 for unions, 5,060 for

mouzas (revenue villages) and 5,060 for villages reported by the census.

Economy

The ship breaking industry in Sitakunda has surpassed similar industries in India and

Pakistan to become the largest in the world. As of August 2007, over 1,500,000 metric tons

(1,476,310 long tons) of iron had been produced from the scrapping of about 20 ships in the

19 functional ship yards scattered over 8 square kilometres (3 sq mi) along the coast of

Sitakunda 810 kilometres (56 mi) from Chittagong, near Fouzderhat. There are 70 companies registered as ship breakers in Chittagong, employing 2,000 regular and 25,000

semi-skilled and unskilled workers. Organized under the Bangladesh Ship Breakers

Association, (BSBA), these include companies within large local conglomerates that sought

ISO certificates.

Pilgrimage sites

Sitakunda is a major site for pilgrimage in Bangladesh, as it features 280 mosques

(including the Shah Mosque) 8 mazars (including Baro Awlias Mazar, Kalu Shah Mazar,

Fakir Hat Mazar), 49 Hindu temples (including Labanakhya Mandir, Chandranath Mandir,

Shambunath Mandir), 3 ashrams (including Sitakunda Shankar Math), and 3 Buddhist

temples. The Hammadyar Mosque, located at the village of Masjidda on the banks of a tank

known as the Hammadyar Dighi, was built during the reign of Ghiyasuddin Mahmud Shah,

the last Husain Shahi sultan of Bengal, as recorded by the inscription above the central

entrance. The Sudarshan Vihara at village Mayani here, as well as the Vidarshanaram Vihara

at village Mayani in Patiya were both established in 1922 by Prajnalok Mahasthavir (18791971), an eminent Bangladeshi Buddhist preacher. Chandranath temple on top of the peak is

a major tirtha for Hindus in Bangladesh.

Flora and fauna

While returning to Kolkata after completing a floral survey, Joseph Dalton Hooker

(18171911) carried out the first survey of Sitakunda's local flora, as recorded in his Himalayan Journals, in January 1851 (published by the Calcutta Trigonometrical Survey

Office and Minerva Library of Famous Books; Ward, Lock, Bowden & Co., 1891).

The forests of the region are known to be evergreen type with a preponderance of deciduous

species with a levelled distribution. The topmost level consists of Garjan (Dipterocarpus

alatus), Telsur (Hopea odorata), Chapalish (Artocarpus chaplasha), Chundul (Tetrameles

nudiflora) and Koroi or the Moluccan albizia (Albizia falcataria). Lianas, epiphytes (mostly

of orchids, asclepiads, ferns and leafy mosses) and herbaceous undergrowths are abundant.

Several species of Bamboo are cultivated that are common in Bangladesh including Bambusa

balcooa (which is also common in Assam), B. vulgaris, B. longispiculata, B. tulda and B.

nutans; the latter two also being common in the hills of the region. A number of fish species

have become endangered in the area due to overfishing. They include Bhoal (Raiamas bola),

Lakkhya (Eleutheronema tetradactylumBurmese plates, as well as the active AndamanNicobar fault system, and is often capable of generating tsunamis.

Annual average temperature is between 32.5 C (90 F) and 13.5 C (56 F), with an

annual rainfall of 2,687 millimetres (106 in). Along with Chittagong and Hathazari, in June

2007 Sitakunda was badly affected by mudslides caused by heavy rainfall combined with the

recent practice of hill-cutting.. A small 300-watt wind turbine, built by the government,

provides electricity to fish farms.

The geological structure of Sitakunda, 70 kilometres (43 mi) long and 10 kilometres

(6 mi) wide, is one of the westernmost structures of Chittagong and Chittagong Hill Tracts,

delimited by the Feni River in the north, the Karnaphuli River in the south, the Halda River in

the east and the Sandwip Channel in the west. The Sitakunda Range acts as a water divide

between the Halda Valley and the Sandwip Channel. The 88 kilometres (55 mi) -long Halda

flows from Khagrachari to the Bay of Bangal, and is one of the six tributaries of Karnafuli,

the major river in the area. Sandwip Channel represents the northern end of the western part

of the Chittagong-Tripura Folded Belt.

Sitakunda is a major site for pilgrimage in Bangladesh, as it features 280 mosques

(including the Shah Mosque) 8 mazars (including Baro Awlias Mazar, Kalu Shah Mazar,

Fakir Hat Mazar), 49 Hindu temples (including Labanakhya Mandir, Chandranath Mandir,

Shambunath Mandir), 3 ashrams (including Sitakunda Shankar Math), and 3 Buddhist

temples. The Hammadyar Mosque, located at the village of Masjidda on the banks of a tank

known as the Hammadyar Dighi, was built during the reign of Ghiyasuddin Mahmud Shah,

the last Husain Shahi sultan of Bengal, as recorded by the inscription above the central

entrance. The Sudarshan Vihara at village Mayani here, as well as the Vidarshanaram Vihara

at village Mayani in Patiya were both established in 1922 by Prajnalok Mahasthavir (18791971), an eminent Bangladeshi Buddhist preacher. Chandranath temple on top of the peak is

a major tirtha for Hindus in Bangladesh.

and unskilled workers. Organized under the Bangladesh Ship Breakers Association, (BSBA),

these include companies within large local conglomerates that sought ISO certificates.

Maittya (Scomberomorus commerson), Gnhora (Labeo gonius), Kata (Nemapteryx nenga),

Chewa (Taenioides cirratus), Sundari bele (Glossogobius giuris), Bnata (Liza parsia), Koral

(Etroplus suratensis) and Kawoon (Anabas testudineus), as well as crustaceans like tiger

shrimps.

While returning to Kolkata after completing a floral survey, Joseph Dalton Hooker

(18171911) carried out the first survey of Sitakunda's local flora, as recorded in his Himalayan Journals, in January 1851 (published by the Calcutta Trigonometrical Survey

Office and Minerva Library of Famous Books; Ward, Lock, Bowden & Co., 1891).

), Chapila (Gudusia chapra), Datina (Acanthopagrus latus), Rupchanda (Pampus argenteus),

Pungash (Pangasius pangasius), Chhuri (Trichiurus lepturus), Ilsha Chandana (Tenualosa

toli), Hilsha (Tenualosa ilisha), Faishya (Anchoviella commersonii), Maittya

(Scomberomorus commerson), Gnhora (Labeo gonius), Kata (Nemapteryx nenga), Chewa

(Taenioides cirratus), Sundari bele (Glossogobius giuris), Bnata (Liza parsia), Koral

(Etroplus suratensis) and Kawoon (Anabas testudineus), as well as crustaceans like tiger

shrimps.

Sitakunda at a glance

Location:- Between 2234N and2243N latitude and 9138E and 9141E

longitude.

Name: This place is named sitakunda after the name of the goddess sita.

Total area : 94,720 Km

Cultivable land: 200570 ec.

Population:274903; male 55.34%, female 44.66%; Muslim 84.91%, Hindu 14.40%; Buddhist, Christian and others 0.69%.

Religious institutions: Mosque 280, tomb 8, temple 49, Buddhist temple 3

Literacy and educational institutions: Average literacy 41.1%; male 49.3% and

female 30.6%. Educational institutions: cadet college 1, college 4, high school 24,

junior school 3, primary school 73, madrasa 10, military academy 1.

Newspapers and periodical: Weekly Chaloman Sitakunda. Cultural organizations: Co-operative society 120, club 151, cinema hall 2, press

club 1, public library 1.

Main occupations Agriculture: 15.3%, forestry 2.77%, fishing 3.27%, agricultural laborer 8.61%, wage laborer 2.64%, industry 3.27%, transport 2.84%, commerce

13.88%, service 32.76%, renting house 1.01%, construction 1.01%, others 12.64%

Value of land:The market value of the land of the first grade is approximately Tk 15000 per 0.01 hectare.

Main crops:Paddy, betel leaf, ginger, turmeric, onion, chilli, bean and vegetables Traditional transport:Bullock cart (nearly extinct Main exports:Bean, melon, rubber and betel leaf.

NGO activities:Operationally important NGOs are VERC, CARE, BRAC, ASA, GRAMEEN

BANK, IPSA

Field Description

The Sitakunda hill range basin was formed during Miocene period of time and a

thick pile of shallow marine sediment deposition was accumulated over a wide area. A huge

thickness of clastic sedimentary rocks of Mio- pliocene age is well exposed in the south

eastern part of Bangladesh which provides an excellent opportunity to carry out a geological

field work.

Some major geological structures of Sitakunda area are anticline,syncline,fold, fault, joint

etc. Some minor structures are ripple marks, cross bedding, nodular structure, Lamination

etc. Examples of some physical features are potholes, plunged pull, refill etc. There are

some anthropogenic and non- anthropogenic activities that can be observed in this region

such as erosion, weathering, zoom cultivation, unplanned construction, deforestation etc.

Examples of some natural process are high tide, low tide, hydrocere, sedimentation etc

which can be observed in a field survey in this region.

We also observed some important natural resources such as wind, gas, mineral water, solar

energy etc.

The site under our observation was under the region between 2230' N to 2245' N Latitude

and 9138' E to 9144' E Longitude.

The complete observation of the total area was ext remely tough. So we divided our total

field area into three suitable regions. They are-

Botanical Garden and Eco-park of Sitakunda

Labanakkhaya saltwater hot spring section and

Sandwip channel seashore flood plain land.

Shagorica Ship Breaking Yard

On the first day of our fieldwork, we went to vish the Boticanal Garden and Eco-park.

We paid a visit to the Labanakkhaya saltwater hot spring on the second day of our field

tour. In the afternoon of second day, we went to

visit the Sandwip channel seashore. This field report deals with the observation and

experience of the "fieldwork on the basis of geo- environmental aspects. The detailed field

description of our fieldwork will be notre down in those following pages. They are

organized in a systematical way.

Botanical Garden and Eco-park

The first eco-park in Bangladesh, along with a botanical garden, was established in

2001 on 808 hectares (1,997 acres) of the Chandranath Hills in Sitakunda. The eco-park was

established to facilitate biodiversity conservation, natural regeneration, new plantations and

infrastructure development, as well as to promote nature-based tourism to generate income.

The park, 405 hectares (1,001 acres), and the garden, 403 hectares (996 acres), under the

Bariadhala Range of Chittagong Forest Division, are rich with natural Gymnosperm tree

species including Podocarpus neriifolius and species of Gnetum and Cycas.The Park is

reported to be able to receive 25,000 visitors in a single weekend. with the botanical garden

included, the number of visitors can reach up to 50,000. Entry fee is only tk. 5.00. This is a reserved forest block with unique natural beauty. This is a promising site for

developing habitat of wild flora and fauna, flourishing eco-tourism and developing research

and education for scientists of home and abroad. Many serpentine paths have passed through

the hill and we went to the hilltop climbing the path. A natural spring was also there and

luckily some of us were able to take bath under the heavy dropping of the cataract.

On the first day of our field investigation, we went to visit Sitakunda Botanical

Garden and Eco-park. We went there by walk. We took our breakfast at 7.30am. Then we

started our journey towards botanical garden and eco-park at 7.51am. First of all we took the

reading of GPS to identify our location. Then we started our journey. Some of our friends

were selected to count stepping for determining distance. We worked in groups throughout

the total tour. We distributed our works so that we can collect as much data as possible in a

very limited time. We observed agricultural fields, houses mainly built of bamboo and

artificial forests. We also observed important geological features in the hilly tracts inside

botanical garden. We observed hill cutting, zoom cultivation and serious environmental

degradation in these areas.

Location and accessibility:

The botanical garden and eco-park is about 1.86km away from our base camp. The reading of

GPS at our base camp was 223636 N Latitude and 913951 E Longitude. When we reached

the gate of the Botanical Garden and Eco-park of Sitakunda, the reading of GPS was

2260301N and 9167726E. After getting inside the gate we saw a 3D map of the total

Botanical Garden and Eco-park area. Then we observed the map very carefully to get a clear

view about the total area. Then we observed the total site and collected important data and

sample. We also took many photographs of important samples.

Observation:

On 2nd December 2010, we went to visit Botanical Garden and Eco-park of Sitakunda. It is situated in the northern side of Chittagong. This area is connected with Dhaka

and Chittagong through the Dhaka-Chittagong trunk road. We observed a large amount of

bean cultivation (locally called Shim) in almost all the agricultural fields here. Betel leaf

cultivation was also a significant observation on the way to Eco-park. We collected both

geological and biological information. For presenting our field repot in a systematic way, we

will make two sections in our observation.

Geological and geo-morphological observation

We got a clear view about the asymmetrical, box-type doubly plunging anticline

folded structure of Botanical Garden region. Our honorable teacher Abdul Kadir Ibn Kamal

sir was very helpful for us in understanding this complex geological structure throughout the journey. We noticed that the axis of the fold is running in NNW-SSE direction, parallel

to the general trend of regional stokes. Both the flanks of the anticline merge into the

alluvial plain of the Feni River in the north Soil of this region was mainly sandy and Sandy

clay.

Figure: 3D model map of Botanical Garden and Eco-park.

The process by which soil become lose generally that is famillar by weathering.There are

some causes of weathering; such as chemical,biological ect. It occurs in hill range.Generally

after weathering erosion occurs.

We observed serious erosion and weathering in the total Botanical garden area. In some

areas, we observed biological weathering cased by tree roots.

Valley is the lower most part between the hills.It is the drainage system of hill

area. The iravitional water of the hills is carried out by the chara. It is very important

in a hill region.

Fig: Valley between to the two hill

In our field tour, we observed fault in the hill renge area. The western flank of

sitakunda hill range has been affected by a longitudinal fault roughly parallel to the axis. It

generally occurs for the continental drift. the strike and dip of a fault are measured in the

some way as they are for bedding or jointing . the fault zone may consist of nomerious

interisting small faults , or it may be a confused zone of breecia or mylonite .

We have observed some major structure of fold in the region . Fold is an anticline and axis of

the anticline has been determined by

joining the points between two opposite dipping beds. The lower part of the hill part is called

the syncline.

Fig: Anticline

In the Botanical garden area, we observed that the clastic sediments are sorted very

poorly. Grains were nearly angular to sub angular.

Fig: Very poorly sorted angular to sub-angular grains

We observed sedimentary layered structure in the hill tracts. We observed

sedimentary layering caused by the deposition in different environment. We obsered the

impression of sedimentary deposition in many ancient environments.

The most important discordant bedding is current bedding with oblique lines of

stratification are bounded by layers of concordant bedding. Current bedding indicates rapid

changes in direction and strength of a stream of water carrying sediments, in bars, spits, sand

bank and deltas.

Fig: Cross bedding

We observed sedimentary bed and lamination in the eco-park. We also observed

various kinds of sedimentary rocks. Sandstone was one of them.

Fig: Bed and Lamination. Fig:Sandstone

We observed two chara (stream) in the Botanical Garden area named Sahasradhara (thousand

streams) and Suptadhara (hidden stream). Though they were not strong as we seen but in

rainy season, they become very powerful.

On the way to base camp from Chandranath temple we observed nodular structure, brittle

substance and piling barrier in the hilly area.

Fig: nodular structure Fig: Brittle substance.

Fig: Piling barrier

Fig: Some geologic features

Biological and Biodiversity observation

The Botanical Garden and Eco-park is the first eco-park in Bangladesh, along with a

botanical garden. It was established to facilitate biodiversity conservation, natural

regeneration, new plantations and infrastructure development, as well as to promote nature-

based tourism to generate income. Area of the total Eco-park and Botanical Garden is 808

hectares (1997 acres). The park covers an area of 405 hectares (1,001 acres) and the garden

covers 403 hectares (996 acres). Under the Bariadhala Range of Chittagong Forest Division,

this Botanical Garden is rich with natural Gymnosperm tree species including Podocarpus

neriifolius and species of Gnetum and Cycas.

The whole area is covered with a lot of flora & fauna. Among the flora there are many small

& large plant.A short description about flora & fauna are given bellow-

Flora is the one of the most important component in the Eco park & botanical garden in

Sitakunda. There are so many varieties in flora.We can make a concept about the flora of the

area by classifing the species, we can classify the flora in three types they are-

Herb

It is small & soft branches plant.It lives one or two season to one or two years. We

saw a lot of herb in the area. Among them grass ,bean, various kinds of orchid, Lojjaboti,

tiger furns, Telakochu, Ada, Holud, Kasful, Cactus ect.

Fig: kashful Fig: Furns

Shrub It is more developed species than the herb.It lives more than herb. The plant treats like large

trees. The area is enriched with a lot of shrubs.

The small shrub is famillar with under shrub. Among the shurb we saw different types of

Bet,Pata bahar,Jaba,Rangan ect.

Trees

The forests of the region are known to be evergreen type with a preponderance of

deciduous species with a leveled distribution. The topmost level consists of Garjan

(Dipterocarpus alatus), Telsur ( Hopea odorata), Chapalish (Artocarpus chaplasha),

Chundul (Tetrameles nudiflora) and Koroi or the Moluccan albizia (Albizia falcataria). The

lower level consists of species of jarul (Lagerstroemia speciosa), Toon (Toona ciliata), Jam ,

(syzygium cumini), Jolpai (Elaeocarpus robustus).

Figure: Chapalish (Artocarpus chaplasha),

We observed many alien species such as (Eucalyptus) have been planted artificially. We

observed many monoculture plantations of economically beneficial species such as Shegun,

Shishu etc which creates an enormous pressure to the local naturally occurring plant species.

We got information from some local people that several species of Bomboo are cultivated

here. Among those species of bamboo, some are common in all over Bangladesh including

Bambusa balcooa, B. vulgaris, B. longispiculata. But B.tulda and B. nutans are very

common in hills of the region.

Fig:Gamari & Teak mixed garden Fig: Hard wood garden

Local name of some significant plant species of the Botanical Garden area are-Debdaru,

Krishnachura, Shegun, Shimul, Haldu, Ziolvadu, Shonalu, Pinene, Kanak, Bormala, Kurchi,

Kodom, Kalo Koroi, Khudi jam, Chatian, Mohua, Bokul, Pine, Kath badam, Dewa, Joba,

Kurchi, Jhao, Menda, Chick rashi, sgeora, Amloki, Nagesshor, Jibon tree, Dhara mara,

Ashok, Akash momi, Radha chura, Kanchon, Vadi, Dumur, Sita vaat.

Fig: Cassia fistula Fig: Terminalia catappa

Specialized Garden

We obsered some specialized gardens in the eco park such as-orchid house,cactus

garden,hard wood garden,fruits garden,medicinal plants garden etc.

Fig: Garden situated in the eco park

Lichen

From our observation we saw Lichen in the surface of the hill. Lichen is the

combination of algae and fungi.From this combination both organisms are being benifitted.

Fig: Lichen

Environmental aspect of Eco-Park & Botanical garden

In our observation we also saw many environmental aspect along with the geological and biological observation.

1) There are acute shortage of water in the Eco-Park & Botanical garden.when we

climbed in the chandranath temple then we faced the acute shortage of water problem.

2) The water of the Eco-Park was saline.they have no colour.

3) Deforestation is going on tremendously . The local people are collecting

bamboo,wood etc.from the forest at a large scale that causes Deforestat ion.

4) The local people cut down the hill. At a result, the natural environment of the Eco-

Park &botanical garden become hampered.

5) There are acute shortage of want of food. So the amount of birds and other animals

are decresing.

6) The local people and other people go there and pollutes the natural environment of the

Eco-Park and Botanical garden.

7) Vechile & the brick field of that area pollutes the environment. When we reached on

the top of the chandranath temple then we saw how the dust are covered the earth

surface.

8) The local people cut down the hills and build their house . it is a great to a hill region.

For this reason , the hill region are threated.

Fig:dust in the atmosphere Fig: Hill cutting.

Fig: Environmental pollution and uncontrolled waste disposal by the tourist

On the second day, we went to the shahasradhara & sandeep channel sea shore. From our

base camp , we started our field tour at 8.05 am. We reserve three squtars . At first we went to

the railway line at near the shahasradhara then we went to the shahasradhara by foot. On our

second day , our observation was divided into two parts , at first we went to the shohasradhara .

After our lunch break we went to the sandeep channel.

Labanakhya chara section Geological observation

In our second day , At first we saw labanakhya chara. The local name of spring stream is

called chara. We found this chara with no water. Some rounded rocks are found this chara.In the

chara , soft particles are washed away but hard particles remain unchanged.those deposit are

called gravel deposit.

Fig : Labanakhya chara

Gas aquifer & Petrolium seepage

We observed that from the narrow pore space in the mid of sedimentary layer, deposited

natural gas was coming out from its interior part and creates fire. We also observed that

petroleum elements were seeping through the sedimentary layer.

Brittle substance & Homogeneous mixture

We observed Brittle substance and Homogeneous mixture in the way to the Labanakhya

chara.

Fig: Brittle substance. Fig: Homogeneous mixture.

Nodular structure

In the western flank , we found shale rock type . silty shale rock type , which show nodular

structure. Thinly laminated fissile sedimentary structure which colour is blush gray and

aragillaceous cementing materials presents.when soft particles are cemented with harder parts

and hard particles are coverd with soft particles.

Fig: Nodular structure

Gas seepage

Gas seepage means the process by which fluid or gas transform from high pressure zone

to low pressure zone by means of fracture , fault , joint , interconnected pore space etc. In this

section , we observed gas seepage near about axis which located in northwestern side of the

Labanakhya temple which indicates the presence of

underlying soft dome.

Fig: Gas seepage

Shasradhara water fall

Shasradhara was one of the major observation of our field tour. We reached the water fall

at 10:30 am. The GPS location of this place was 22 40 24 N to 91 39 31 E. The water fall

was created by a major fault. Once there were only one stream . Due to the tectonic activities a

major fault was created and the displacement angle was 90 .From that time due to the water fall

,sedimentary rocks were becoming eroded. There were still some fault line present in the water

fall.

Fig:Shasradhara water fall

Shohosrodhara dam project

Dam is an artificial structure to reserve natural water or the water from fall or river. It helps to

serve water throughout the year or in the time when there scarcity of natural water is happened.

Dam includes a reservoir which reserve water and a gate to pass the overflow of water which can

be controlled mechanically or not by using slabs of cement.

In Labanakkhya Chara, we observed the Shohosrodhara Dam and its mechanism. In the rainy

season water fall contains water that comes and flow through the Dam in a sustainable process.

The reservoir of the Dam holds water, when the water level raises from its ability then the water

runs through the channel of it. There are slabs of cement stands on the slope of channel by where

the water passes to its own way. The high speedy water cannot run so speedily because the slab

helps to reduce the speed of water and make it environmental and eco-friendly for the local

vegetation and bio-diversity. When in the dry season the local vegetation needs water the

reservoir of the dam supplies adequate water for the fertility of soil.

The special characteristics of this Dam are that it offers water to its controlled channel after the

water level raises over its height.

Economic significance of the dam

The local vegetation, especially the bean cultivation, betel leaf cultivation, paddy cultivation

depends on the water flows from the reservoir of the dam mostly in the dry season. The local

vegetable cultivation largely depends on it mostly in the dry season.

Management of the dam

The dam is managed by a committee named Shohosrodhara water management co-operative

society.

Impact of the dam on the local environment

For this dam the sediments can occur shallow depth of the reservoir and that will cause

uncontrolled water flow.

It loosens the structure of the bank of the dam for this land slide can happen at any time.

The local biodiversity already have been hampered.

It has seen that for the water logging the plants of the dam already been dead.

Local biodiversity may collapse for the change of the nature and the superstructure of the

dam.

Aquatic environment is disrupted for the life depends on it.

Comparison of the condition of dam between the two observation of batch 11th and 12th

Last observation of Dam Recent observation of Dam

Last observation

It is seen that the reservoir contains less water and it is in dry condition. Aquatic plants were

available and the growth of them was high. Sedimentary deposition was low thats why it can

contain more water.

Recent observation

In the recent condition the water level has risen more than the past. For this most plants of bank

are drowned in the water that hampered the ecosystem of the water. As the sediment deposited

we have seen that the water level is high and it may cause overflow.

Inference of these observations

From these observations we can predict that in the upcoming time the sedimentation process may

cause shallow depth of the reservoir. The water level may rise abruptly and that will cause

overflow of water and may hamper the agricultural process. So adequate measures such as

dredging project should be run.

Biological observation of the labanakhya chara section

On the second day of our field tour , we observed many biological observation . Among

them some of are endangered species and some of are naturally occurring forest. We observed

the relationship between the biotic and a biotic components of the natural environment. We also

saw the ecosystem of that area.

Flora

In our field tour , we observed a small amount of flora . among them they are Sim ,

Eucalyptus , Kathal , Supari , Farn , Akasmoni ,Sojina , Segun , Lotpopil , Akshel , Tomettow ,

Fulcopi , Badhacopi , Ghorakhuri , Ghamari , Setlojjaboti , pape. Kalaboti etc. All of them

shegun is the naturall occurring plant in the hilly area.

Fig:Segun & Gamari Fig: Kalaboti

Fauna

There are also some fauna in this area. In the local area , we observed Marog , chagol,

Garu , Faring , projapati . Among birds we saw Kak , sakun , Bok. We also saw many bangachi

in the stream area.

Environmental aspect of the Labanakhya chara

We also saw many environmental aspect. The hilly area are closely connected with the

environment-

1) The natural process of the area are precipitation, wind flow, water flow through

stream , rock erosion , seepage of gas etc.

2) The natural resources of the area are rocks, gas also can be considered as natural

resources of this area.

3) The natural hazards of the area are Land slides, Erosion, Flash flood, Explosion of

gas & forest fire .

4) Sahasradhara water dam was built in this area due to harvesting.It reserve water in

here & get water in the whole time.

5) Sahasradhara water dam disturbed the natural flow of water so aquatic species do not

get their natural environment.

6) The chara become dry during the

winter season that affect the wild

fauna.

7) In this dam, when amount of water

increase most of the natural forest of

the hill can be drown.

8) Some time those dam can cause flash

flood.

9) There is any other way through

which the water can be passed.

10) Deforestation in the

Labanakhyachara.

channel Observation on swandeep

On our second day , our second observation was seashore of swandeep channel. We

start our tour at 01.30 pm. We reached in the swandeep channel at 03.00 pm. We went to the

swandeep channel by scooter. There we saw geological , biological observation and we also saw

many environmental aspect. We note down some GPS location of some important place. The

place we visit was under Muradpur,Fakirhat ghat. The GPS location of that area is 22 45 66 E

&91 88 56 N.

Geological observations

Sluice gate and Tidal flood plane

During the tour we observe a sluice gate. It was build for blocking the tidal water.

The tidal water is sline ,which is not appropriate for cultivation.

Beside the tidal canal we observe a tidal flood plain. It was created from tidal deposition &

finer particles can still be found. There was a smooth layer of grass which plays an important

role minimizing the erosion.

Fig: Tidal flood plain & Sluice gate

Tidal canal and Bedding

Tidal canal was also under our observation. Tidal water comes twice in a day through the

canal. Beside the canal there was some mangrove vegetation. During high tidal period finer

particles deposits under the canal & surrounded area become flooded.

Due to tidal deposition some bedding can be found in tidal flood plain. It composed

with silica, clay particles, humus

Fig: Tidal canal & bedding

Ripple marks, Salt deposition, Mud crack & Aerial root

We observed ripple marks in the sandy sea beach. Though it is hard to identify actual ripple

marks here due to boat and local public transportation.

We also observed a salt layer near the sea shore which made after the departure of tidal current .

We observed mud cracks in the floor of shore which preserved in the fine grained sedimentary

rocks.

We also observed aerial root of keora tree in the sea shore area.

Fig: Ripple marks, Salt deposition, Mud crack & Aerial root

Biological observation Flora

In the sea shore of sandweep channel has some flora. Such as kewra , lona jhaw , eucliptas

, khejur , sim etc. there were a mangrove forest of khewra tree. They have areal roots to breath.

This massive form of kewra acts as Green belt which protects various natural Disasters.

Fig: Green belt

Fauna

In the beach area we observe some birds like Kak, Salik, Chorue, Bok, Pankouri ETC. In

the forest there are some wild species such as Mesobagh, Sial, Bagdasa ETC. Among the fishes

Chring, Lytta, Shuri, Fisha, Echa, Hungas, Bata ETC were found. Reptiles like snake.

Fig:Snake & Kakra

Environmental aspect

1) The natural resources of this area are sea fish, mangrove forest, mangrove

vegetation etc.

2) The natural processes of this area are tidal flood, cyclone, tornado, soil deposition

etc.

3) The pure water of this area was found in low amount. There are a high scarcity of

pure water.

4) There were a sluice gate to protect the agricultural activities. It was built due to

prevent the access water.

5) Waste in everywhere.

6) There were various pollution such as soil pollution, water pollution.

7) The soil pH is acidic.

8) High tide and low tide are observable feature in here.

9) There are plenty of clay particles.

Fig: Pollution in the swandeep channel.

Fig: Low tide

Fig: Low tide

Ship breaking yard

We observed a ship breaking industry named Sagorika ship breaking industry which is situated

in the southest part of Chittagong.

Ship breaking or ship demolition is a type of ship disposal involving the breaking up of ships for

scrap recycling, with the hulls being discarded in ship graveyards. Most ships have a lifespan of

a few decades before there is so much wear that refitting and repair becomes uneconomical. Ship

breaking allows materials from the ship, especially steel, to be reused. Equipment on board the

vessel can also be reused.

ship breaking in 21st century

Until the late 20th century, ship breaking took place in port cities of industrialized countries such

as the United Kingdom and the United States. Today, most ship breaking yards are in Alang in

India, Chittagong in Bangladesh, Aliaga in Turkey and near Karachi in Pakistan, due to lower

labor costs and less stringent environmental regulations dealing with the disposal of lead paint

and other toxic substances. Some "breakers" still remain in the United States which work

primarily on government surplus vessels. There are also some in Dubai, UAE for tankers. China

used to be an important player in the 1990s. It is now trying to reposition itself in more

environmentally friendly industries

Efficiency of facilities

Ship breaking can occur in a wide variety of facilities. They range from advanced sites like Van

Heyghen Recycling and other "Green Ship Recycling" approved facilities in industrialized ports,

to low-tech facilities such as at Alang, India. At present the only truly environmentally correct

option is the use of "Green Ship Recycling" at approved facilities. These facilities can recover up

to 99% of the ship's materials and correctly process hazardous waste such as asbestos.[

Health and environmental risks

Contain many substances that are banned or considered dangerous in developed countries.

Asbestos and polychlorinated biphenyls (PCBs) are typical examples. Asbestos was used heavily

in ship construction until it was finally banned in most of the developed world in the mid 1980s.

Currently, the costs associated with removing asbestos, along with the potentially expensive

insurance and health risks In addition to steel and other useful materials, however, ships

(particularly older vessels) can, have meant that ship-breaking in most developed countries is no

longer economically viable. Removing the metal for scrap can potentially cost more than the

scrap value of the metal itself. In the developing world, however, shipyards can operate without

the risk of personal injury lawsuits or workers' health claims, meaning many of these shipyards

may operate with high health risks. Protective equipment is sometimes absent or inadequate.

Dangerous vapors and fumes from burning materials can be inhaled, and dusty asbestos-laden

areas are commonplace.

Fig: Health and environmental risks

Pollutants in the recyclable ship

Pollutants Materials containing pollutant

Asbestos Hanger liners, mastic under insulation, cloth over insulation, cable,

lagging and insulation on pipes and hull, adhesive

Polychlorinated

biphenyls

Rubber products such as hoses, plastic foam insulation, cables, silver

paint, and habitability paint

Lead Lead and chromate paint, lead ballast, batteries, generators, and motor

components

Excess noise With grinding, hammering, metal cutting, and other activities

Fire Ignited insulation, matting, lagging, and residual fuel; and from

lubricants and other flammable liquids

Others Heavy metals in ship transducers, ballast, and paint coatings; mercury

in fluorescent light tubes, thermometers, electrical

switches, light fittings, fire detectors

Fig: Pollutants in the recyclable ship

Overview of Ship breaking yard

Coastal environment is delicate. Harnessing and exploiting its opportunities in systematic and

coordinated way is essential to make it a sustainable resource. Moreover, it contains several

important and critical ecosystems. Unfortunately some part of this coast is used for ship

breaking, causing huge environmental loss. Now Bangladesh has to decide whether it would

allow continuing its coast to be used as a dustbin of developed world or not. It is an urgent need

for sustainable

development of the coastal resources. Monitoring of the coastal activity is important in order to

save the coastal ecosystems. This monitoring system can give valuable information to the

environmentalist, policy maker and different stakeholder interested in coastal environment and

resources.

Conclusion and recommendation

In this field work, we may conclude the Sitakunda region as an asymmetrical and doubly

plunging anticline. The exposed rocks are all clastic sedimentary rocks and may be classified

into silty shale unit. There are many sedimentary structures such as concretions, nodule, cross

bedding, ripple marks and laminated structure etc. Many physical features such as waterfall,

rapid, potholes, plunged pool etc are found.

From the above observations it is evident that near the axial region, we found relatively hard and

compact materials whereas in the longer distance from the axial region, we found relatively

small and looser materials such as sandstone and clay.

Biologically in this region animal species is relatively very low than plant species. Almost all the

animal species are nocturnal. In this region birds are extremely rare. Plants and animal species

survive here with the scarcity of water.

Due to hostile geological pattern including hilly area land slide, mud slide, scarcity of pure

drinking water, cyclones, flash floods, population density is very low here. Deforestation

excessive extraction of forest resources including timber, bamboo, animal etc are causing

environmental degradation. Hill cutting is making this area risky for the local people to live here.

We observed smoggy atmosphere from the top of the hill. This indicates that heavy air pollution

is going on and pollution by tourists is another threat for serious environmental degradation.

These pollutions are really harm full for plants and animals.

Sitakunda is really an excellent area for investigation of geological and biological aspects of

environment. But a complete investigation requires more time, equipments, scope and higher

knowledge. But undoubtedly this field tour taught us we should not be rude to the environment.

If it is done we will have to suffer. This suffering will cost a huge loss for life and property.

GPS location of important areas

The name of the

place

Latitude

Longitude

Base camp 22 36 36

91 3951

Eco park gate 22 60 36 91 67 726

3D map of the Eco

park

22 36 11 91 40 40

Orcid house

22 36 13

91 40 56

Resting Position 1 22 36 48 91 41 22

Resting position 2 22 37 26 91 41 10

Resting position 3 22 37 41 91 41 7

Lecture on bed and

fault

22 41 28 91 41 6

Chandranath temple 22 38 1 91 41 2

Location

Latitude Longitude Distance from

Labanakhya gate

Labanakhya

gate

223946 N

91 38 30

0 km

Chara 1 223939 N 913857 E 1.11 km

Chara 2 22 405 N 91 39 6 E 1.635 km

End of V

shaped valley

22 40 15 N 91 39 1 E 2.1747 km

Shasradhara

Dam

22 40 14 N 91 39 18 2.585 km

Shasradhara

waterfall

22 40 24 N 91 39 31 E 3.208 km