BAGERHAT, Aug. 22 -- Once largely used as open river chars for seasonal cultivation and other activities, stretches along the Bishkhali River in Bagerhat are gradually turning green as 50,000 saplings planted by the Forest Department take root.

The plantation, covering about 50 kilometres along both banks of the river in Morelganj and Kachua upazilas, is already creating a striking green landscape amid the monsoon.

Neem, sissoo, mahogany, babla, jam, wood apple, amla, haritaki, wax apple, tamarind, guava, olive, arjun, casuarina and acacia are among the species planted on the river chars.

The saplings have been planted in rows, about two feet apart, with each one supported by a stake. Many have already sprouted fresh leaves, while regu...