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Carrying a message of environmental protection, a young Bangladeshi man is walking nearly 1,000 kilometres from Teknaf to Tetulia to promote sustainable living, reduce fuel consumption, and encourage people to adopt walking as a daily habit.
Fahim Muntasir, a 26-year-old resident of Brahmanbaria, began his journey from Teknaf in Cox’s Bazar on 10 July under the slogan, “No more black smoke, I will conquer distances on foot.” He is currently travelling through Nilphamari, meeting local people and spreading awareness about the benefits of walking and protecting nature.
Fahim has considered walking a part of his lifestyle since childhood. He is the president of the cultural organisation Sonali Shokal in Brahmanbaria and leads the youth wing of the Red Crescent Society’s Brahmanbaria unit. He has also long been involved in environmental activities, including nature conservation and protecting water bodies.
During his journey across different districts, Fahim is highlighting the health benefits of walking, the importance of reducing carbon emissions, saving fuel, and preserving biodiversity.
“Every healthy person should walk at least 10,000 steps a day. People are becoming increasingly dependent on vehicles, which is reducing physical activity and contributing to various health problems,” Fahim said.
He added, “My journey is not only about promoting walking; it is also a message to protect nature and biodiversity. I am raising awareness about the harmful impacts of filling up water bodies, deforestation, and the destruction of habitats of animals, including snakes.”
Fahim said he has received tremendous support and encouragement from people across the country during his journey. In many places, he has stayed at the homes of acquaintances and well-wishers, whose hospitality has motivated him to continue.
After reaching Tetulia in Panchagarh, the final destination of his current expedition, Fahim said he plans to travel on foot across all 64 districts of Bangladesh in the future.