Tangail, Sep 28 (V7N)- Nature enthusiasts are flocking to the Basile area of Tangail to witness the breathtaking spectacle of hundreds of acres of red shapla (water lilies) blossoming across the wetlands. Known as the "Red Shapla Bill" or "Red Beetroot Bill" due to the vivid color of the flowers, this natural wonder has become a popular destination for visitors who seek to enjoy its beauty, especially during the early morning hours before sunrise. However, a lack of boat services in the area is causing inconvenience for those eager to experience the sight up close.

The blooming of the red shapla marks the transition from monsoon to autumn, with hints of lingering moisture in the air. Alongside the vibrant red flowers, other signs of seasonal change are present, such as kashful (a type of grass) blooming on the fields and molluscs surfacing in the waters. The sight of dew glistening like pearls on the petals of shapla flowers, combined with the serene mist of an autumn morning, creates a mesmerizing atmosphere.

Neetu Khan and Mim Hasan, students of Kumudini Government College, were among the early visitors to the Red Shapla Bill. Neetu expressed her amazement at discovering such a picturesque spot so close to home, saying, “I didn’t know we have such a beautiful Shapla bill in Tangail. It’s like something I’ve only seen in photos from other parts of the country.” Mim added, “I couldn’t resist after seeing my friends come here. The sight of endless red shapla flowers is simply magical.”

The Red Shapla Bill is not only home to these stunning red flowers but also features the white variety, adding contrast and diversity to the landscape. Frogs resting on green leaves and grasshoppers fluttering in the air enhance the natural charm of the place, making it even more delightful for visitors.

Sabbir Hossain, who came to the bill with his wife, shared his joy at finally being able to take photos with the red shapla. “I’ve wanted to see this for a long time. The flowers standing tall in the morning light create such a beautiful scene—it fills my heart with happiness,” he said.

College student Fahima Khatun also shared her excitement, saying, “I’ve never seen anything like this before—thousands of red flowers blooming all around. It’s such a beautiful transformation of nature, and I couldn’t resist taking lots of pictures.”

While the Red Shapla Bill is gaining popularity as a tourist destination, it is also an essential source of income for local communities. Every day, around 10,000 to 15,000 rupees worth of *saluk* (a plant similar to water lilies) is harvested and sold, providing livelihoods for marginalized people. Majeda Begum, one of the shapla collectors, said, “When the water comes, we pick the shapla and sell them. These few days of work allow us to support our families.”

Locals hope that if boats and other tourist-friendly infrastructure are developed in the coming season, the Red Shapla Bill will attract even more visitors, creating more employment opportunities for the community.

As the flowers continue to bloom and draw in more nature lovers, the Red Shapla Bill in Tangail is poised to become a prominent eco-tourism destination, offering both natural beauty and economic growth to the region.

END/BKC/AJ