Tea worker Bishnu Hazra has been planting trees at his own expense for 28 years

Bishnu Hazra (40), a tea worker at the Bhaura tea plantation in Sreemangal upazila of Moulvibazar, has set a unique example in protecting the environment by planting trees at his own expense for 28 years. In 1997, at the age of just 15, he started planting trees with the meager income he earned from tuition.

Initially, he planted trees on roads, vacant fields and around tea plantations, but over time, the scope of his work increased. While working as a newspaper hawker from 2014 to 2018, his interest in trees increased further after reading various environmental reports. Since 2020, many locals have joined him as he has been posting pictures and videos on social media.

Bishnu Hazra goes to the designated place on his bicycle with seedlings, water and equipment to plant trees. Not only does he plant, he regularly takes care of the trees and gives saplings as gifts to guests at weddings, birthdays or other special occasions.

“It’s inspiring to see Vishnu planting trees with his own money,” said Kajal Hazra, a member of the local ‘Stand for Our Endangered Wildlife’ organization and a wildlife photographer. “I saw him planting trees even when he was a schoolboy,” said Lachmi Ravidas, a former tea gardener.

Vishnu’s father, Premlal Hazra, said, “My son’s hobby is planting trees. When I hear people praise him for protecting the environment, I feel proud.”

According to the eco-loving tea worker,

“Planting trees is not just a hobby, it is a responsibility for future generations.”