Govt takes initiatives to return extinct species into nature: Rizwana 

As part of its efforts to conserve wildlife, the government has made steps to bring back extinct animals to the nation, according to Environment, Forests, and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan today.

She claimed that measures are being taken to reintegrate peacocks into their natural habitat and that efforts to reintroduce them have already started, with some being released in safari parks.

A 150-acre nature-friendly afforestation project has also been proposed in the Madhupur Sal Forest, according to the environment consultant.

She made the remarks while speaking as the chief guest at a discussion at the Forest Department headquarters in Agargaon here, marking World Wildlife Day 2025.

This year’s theme of the day was: “Wildlife Conservation Finance: Investing in People and Planet.”

In her speech, Rizwana said Bangladesh’s biodiversity is a source of pride but also faces significant threats. 

She did point out some encouraging developments, though, like the approval of 360 new roles for the Forest Department by the Finance Ministry, which will strengthen efforts to save forests and animals.

The advisor emphasized the importance of raising public awareness about forest fires in the Sundarbans and the necessity of implementing more effective preventative measures.

She called for better living conditions for zoo animals, restructuring safari parks to provide a free environment for wildlife, and improving veterinary services through collaboration with foreign experts.
Rizwana said a project to establish elephant corridors is set to begin next month, ensuring the coexistence of human and wildlife. 

She noted that numerous fishing cats were rescued this year, and for the first time, “Fishing Cat Day” was observed in Bangladesh. 

Awareness campaigns are also being conducted through Deputy Commissioners, and these efforts will continue, the adviser said.

She also stressed the need for taking collective efforts not only to reintroduce wildlife but also ensure their safe habitats, emphasising that public awareness and participation are the key drivers of conservation.

Presided over by Chief Conservator of Forests Md. Amir Hosain Chowdhury, the meeting was addressed, among others, by Additional Secretary (Secretary in routine charge) Md Khairul Hasan and Wildlife Specialist and Former Principal Wildlife Specialist, Dubai Safari Park of UAE Dr Mohammad Ali Reza Khan.

Presentations were made by Dr Mohammad Firoz Zaman, Professor, Department of Zoology, Dhaka University; Dr Md Jahangir Alam, Country Director, Wildlife Conservation Society, Bangladesh; Imran Ahmed, Conservator of Forests, Khulna Region; Md. Sanaullah Patwary, Conservator of Forests, Wildlife and Nature Conservation Region; and ABM Sarwar Alam, Programme Manager, IUCN Bangladesh.

At the event, Adviser Rizwana distributed awards to the winners of the “Know Your Wildlife” and “Wildlife Photography” competitions. 

ABM Sarwar Alam, Programme Manager, IUCN Bangladesh; Imran Ahmed, Conservator of Forests, Khulna Region; Md. Sanaullah Patwary, Conservator of Forests, Wildlife and Nature Conservation Region; Dr. Mohammad Firoz Zaman, Professor, Department of Zoology, Dhaka University; and Dr. Md. Jahangir Alam, Country Director, Wildlife Conservation Society, Bangladesh, gave presentations.

Adviser Rizwana presented prizes to the “Know Your Wildlife” and “Wildlife Photography” contest winners during the ceremony.