Honey collectors have started their seasonal honey harvesting in the Sundarbans after receiving 14-day government permits. Beginning on Wednesday, April 1, they entered the forest in groups through designated points under the supervision of the Forest Department. Despite following official procedures, collectors expressed concern over possible bandit activity, wildlife attacks, and natural disasters during their work.

According to local sources, banditry has long been a serious problem in the Sundarbans, with past incidents of fishermen and honey collectors being kidnapped for ransom. Although law enforcement operations have improved the situation, locals say fears of renewed bandit activity persist. Bagerhat District Forest Officer Rezaul Karim stated that necessary instructions have been issued to ensure the collectors’ safety, with forest guards maintaining constant monitoring and coordination with law enforcement agencies.

Local residents emphasized that as long as the threat of forest bandits remains, honey collectors continue to face significant risks and called for stronger protective measures.