As Bangladesh celebrates 54 years of independence, the Sundarbans region of the southwest coast stands as a testament to the contribution of nature during the Liberation War. The forests and rivers of the Sundarbans played a vital role alongside the freedom fighters during the nine-month war in 1971.The Sundarbans, one of the world’s largest mangrove forests, spans across  Bagerhat ,Khulna and Satkhira districts, while the rest extends into West Bengal, India. Approximately 62% of the forest lies within Bangladesh, covering an area of 6,017 square kilometers. Its rivers, a mix of saline and freshwater, formed a strategic corridor for movement and combat.
During the war, the Sundarbans became a stronghold for the freedom fighters. In June 1971, under the leadership of Major Ziauddin, a camp was set up at the confluence of Araidanga, Maithar, and Murtir canals. The dense river networks of the region, including the Baleshwar, Bhola, Pashur, Shela, and Harin Ghata rivers, offered safe passage and natural camouflage.As oppression by the Pakistani forces and collaborators increased, many civilians fled to India using the river routes of the Sundarbans. Rest points like Supati, Shapla Canal, and Khudiramer Canal became key landmarks during these perilous journeys.One notable battle occurred on the Shela River in September 1971. Guerrilla fighters attacked a Pakistani steamer, engaging in heavy gunfire from tree-tops. The surprise assault resulted in significant enemy casualties and panic.Another confrontation took place near the Dhan Sagar canal, where a group of freedom fighters led by S.M. Kabir Ahmad Madhu and Amzad Ali Mallick clashed with collaborators. Despite losing one boatman and failing to collect supplies, they returned safely to camp.The memoirs of Abul Hashem Howlader, a freedom fighter and boatman, recall a night of intense combat during a storm. Even after being wounded, he steered the boat to safety under enemy fire, showcasing immense bravery.The Sundarbans witnessed numerous such battles in its rivers—Baleshwar, Bhola, Neelkamal, Pashur, Raymangal, Malancha, and more.Navy Commander (Retd.) Jalal Uddin Bir Uttam documents in his book "Muktijuddhe Nou-Senani" the final training and execution of "Operation Jackpot" — a series of suicidal naval attacks on enemy ships, carried out with limpet mines and explosives. On August 14, the team attempted to strike at Hiron Point, though only partially successful due to enhanced enemy security.Throughout the War, the Sundarbans not only sheltered fighters but also fiercely resisted the invaders—its rivers, like the roar of the Royal Bengal Tiger, aided the liberation of Bangladesh.