To raise awareness about the conservation of endangered species, including the fishing cat, a special awareness van has been launched for the southwestern region of Bangladesh. The van will travel through 21 districts of the region, spreading the message of wildlife protection and engaging people from all walks of life.
The van was officially inaugurated today in Jashore by Syeda Rizwana Hasan, Adviser to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change. The divisional commissioner of Khulna, the conservator of forests from the Jashore Social Forestry Division, officials of the Forest Department, representatives of environmental organizations, and members of the local administration were present at the event.
Speaking at the launch, the Adviser emphasized the need for compassion towards animals. We must be more sensitive to wildlife. It is essential to raise awareness about the protection of all species, including the fishing cat,” she said. “Due to misconceptions, many people kill fishing cats, though they are not harmful. In fact, they help maintain ecological balance.
The southwestern region, particularly the Ganges floodplain, is rich in biodiversity. However, efforts to conserve its wildlife have been limited. The region is home to various rare species such as fishing cats, grey langurs, jackals, greater adjutants, eagles, and the Asian openbill stork. The Padma River and its tributaries are habitats for endangered gharials and even some critically endangered crocodiles.
According to a recent scientific study, this region hosts 260 species of birds—more than 40 percent of Bangladesh’s total bird population. Yet, due to lack of awareness, proper conservation efforts, and the destruction of natural habitats, many species are now at risk. As wildlife increasingly encroach into human settlements, conflict has grown, often resulting in the death of these animals.
The fishing cat is one such victim. In areas like Jashore and Faridpur, cases of the animal being killed have been frequent. Upon noticing this situation, Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan initiated several actions for wildlife protection in the southwest.
For the first time this year, Bangladesh observed World Fishing Cat Day. It is expected that this awareness van campaign will play a vital role in the conservation of fishing cats and other endangered wildlife in the region.
Signed/
Dipankar Bar
Public Relations Officer
Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change
WhatsApp: 01710929596