MONG SING HAI MARMA, Bandarban

Farmers along the banks of the Sangu river in Bandarban’s Thanchi upazila are gradually moving away from tobacco cultivation, turning instead to green, environment-friendly crops in a shift that is improving livelihoods while easing pressure on forests and fragile hill ecosystems.

During a recent visit, this correspondent saw rows of lush green fields stretching across hill slopes and along riverbanks. Where tobacco had dominated the landscape for decades as the main cash crop, Chinese peanuts, beans, mustard, watermelons and seasonal vegetables are now being cultivated, marking a transformation driven by economic necessity and growing environmental awareness.

While profitable, tobacco cultivation in the hills takes a heavy environmental toll. Large quantities of firewood are required to cure tobacco leaves, leading to widespread tree felling from nearby natural forests. This has degraded hillsides, reduced wildlife habitats and contributed to environmental pollution. Tobacco farming has also been harmful to soil quality in the region.

Angsing Nu Marma of Chiniang Para, who shifted from tobacco to peanut cultivation, said soil conditions in the area have improved since farmers began abandoning tobacco.

Many indigenous farmers shared similar experiences, saying tobacco cultivation involved high costs, constant labour, uncertain markets and long-term environmental damage. As a result, they have returned to traditional and environment-friendly farming practices.

Farmers also said birds have returned and wildlife movement has increased in areas that were once silent, signalling signs of ecological recovery.

The shift is also proving financially viable. According to farmers, peanut cultivation requires comparatively lower investment and less maintenance, generating Tk 1.5–2 lakh in profit after harvest.

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