Environment, Forest and Climate Change Minister Md Shahab Uddin on Thursday said that the construction of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park in Juri of Moulvibazar will open a new horizon in wildlife conservation.
The construction of the Safari Park will attract foreign tourists, create employment, and above all improve the quality of life of the people in the area.
He said that the Safari Park will be built keeping the protection of the people living in the Safari Park area in mind.
The environment minister said these things in a video message from his official residence after Ecnec approved the “Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujib Safari Park, Moulvibazar (1st phase)” project for the construction of a safari park at Lathila in Juri upazila of Moulvibazar on Thursday.
The environment minister conveyed his appreciation to Prime Minister Sheikh Hasina, members of Ecnec, the environment secretary, forest department, and all involved parties for sanctioning the project. He emphasized the commitment to safeguarding Bangladesh's endangered wildlife within the confines of the safari park.
A natural habitat for wildlife including elephants, rare fishing cat, locally known as “mechho bagh”, pangolin (banrui), stump-tailed macaque, locally known as “khatleji monkeys”, Asami monkeys, gandhakulas, maya deer, bespectacled hanuman, bears, porcupines, among others, will be created there.
Educational and research opportunities in wildlife conservation and management will be established. Specialized centres will be set up to care for vulnerable orphans and critically endangered elephants. Secure shelters will be built for various endangered species, including tigers, rhinos, lions, crocodiles, gharials, para deer, sambar deer, nilgai, and bears.
Additionally, wildlife hospitals will be founded to treat injured and rescued animals, and public awareness initiatives about wildlife conservation will be initiated. Ponds and lakes will be excavated to enhance habitats for aquatic and migratory birds, ensuring food security for wildlife. Fruit trees, grasslands, and diverse tree species will be planted to further enrich the habitat.
Furthermore, 100,000 saplings will be planted to preserve rare and endangered plant species, and retaining walls will be constructed on hillsides and foothills to prevent soil erosion.
Plans also include the construction of a Natural History Museum and a Nature Observation Centre in the area.
He also said that the project to install two kilometres long cable car in Madhabkunda Eco Park is awaiting approval from Ecnec.