DHAKA: A citizens group in Bangladesh today held a day-long protest here demanding that the government cancel the proposed 1,320 megawatt Indo-Bangla joint venture power plant near the Sundarbans, the world's largest mangrove forest.
The National Committee to Protect Oil, Gas, Mineral Resources, Power and Ports asked the Bangladesh government not proceed with the Rampal power plant project as it will cause severe harm to the Sundarbans.
It announced to hold several rallies in Dhaka and divisonal and district headquarters throughout September, October and November in support of their demand.
The protesters plan to submit an open letter to Prime Minister Narendra Modi after holding a protest march infront of the Indian High Commission in Dhaka, the Daily Star online reported.
Its member Anu Muhammad announced to hold "Cholo, Cholo Dhaka Cholo" protest march soon to press home their demand.
It will hold a grand rally in Dhaka on November 26.
Earlier in the day, the committee started the sit-in programme demanding cancellation of all projects - including the power plant - that will cause harm to the Sundarbans.
Eminent personalities of the country attended the protest.
"Among the 16 crore people in this country, not even 1600 people are in favour of the Rampal power plant. The government ought to cancel this project," columnist Syed Abul Maksud told the gathering.