Govt Takes Steps to Reintroduce Extinct Species: Rizwana

Staff Correspondent; Environment 2025-03-03, 7:09pm

Environment, Forest, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan announced today that the government is actively working to revive species that have become extinct in the country as part of its broader wildlife conservation efforts.

She revealed that the reintroduction of peacocks has already begun, with some released in safari parks, and efforts are underway to reintegrate them into their natural habitats.

Rizwana also highlighted a new nature-friendly afforestation project covering 150 acres in the Madhupur Sal Forest, designed to support the country’s biodiversity.

Speaking as the chief guest at a discussion on World Wildlife Day 2025 at the Forest Department headquarters in Agargaon, Rizwana emphasized the importance of wildlife conservation. This year's theme for the day was "Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet."

She noted that while Bangladesh’s biodiversity is a source of national pride, it faces significant threats. However, Rizwana shared positive news, revealing that the Finance Ministry has approved the creation of 360 new positions within the Forest Department to boost efforts in forest and wildlife conservation.

Regarding the recent forest fires in the Sundarbans, Rizwana stressed the need for more effective measures to prevent future incidents and emphasized the role of public awareness in safeguarding forests and wildlife.

She also called for improved living conditions for zoo animals, better safari park management to ensure a natural environment for wildlife, and enhanced veterinary services in collaboration with international experts.

Rizwana highlighted an upcoming project to establish elephant corridors, set to begin next month, to ensure peaceful coexistence between humans and wildlife. She also praised the rescue of numerous fishing cats this year and the first observance of "Fishing Cat Day" in Bangladesh.

The Adviser reiterated the importance of public participation and awareness in wildlife conservation, stressing that it is crucial not only to reintroduce wildlife but also to ensure their safe habitats.

The event, chaired by Chief Conservator of Forests Md. Amir Hosain Chowdhury, featured remarks from officials such as Additional Secretary Md. Khairul Hasan and Dr. Mohammad Ali Reza Khan, a former wildlife specialist at Dubai Safari Park.

The meeting also included presentations from leading conservation experts, including Dr. Mohammad Firoz Zaman of Dhaka University and Dr. Md. Jahangir Alam of the Wildlife Conservation Society, Bangladesh.

At the event’s conclusion, Rizwana distributed awards to the winners of the "Know Your Wildlife" and "Wildlife Photography" competitions.