They urged socio-political organisations to build up a movement and the district administration to take effective steps for this.

Rivers are the lifeline of the district, protecting environment and providing livelihood to thousands, they said. These can not be allowed to die to serve the interest of a few, they said.

Shajidur Rahman, correspondent of the Daily Janakatha, presented the keynote paper at the meeting, held at the Shilpakala Academy auditorium.

The speakers included environmentalist Mohidul Haque Khan, member secretary of the Buriganga Bachao Andolon; Kapatakkho Backao Andolon leader Mihir Biswas, Anil Kumar and Rabiul Alam.

They said the rivers in Jessore are now almost dead now due to lack of initiative for their recovery from lend grabbers and dredging. They suggested a committee comprising representatives of all political parties, professional groups and socio-cultural organisations.