Authorities have placed the Sundarbans under heightened alert ahead of Eid-ul-Fitr, aiming to manage increased tourist inflow while tackling rising threats from deer poachers and pirates.
Forest Department sources said that tourist numbers typically surge during Eid, while incidents of piracy in the Sundarbans and nearby coastal areas have also increased. Reports indicate that fishermen are abducted from areas such as Dublar Char, raising further security concerns.
At the same time, authorities have observed a rise in deer poaching in the forest. Venison has been recovered from multiple locations, and several trapped deer have been rescued and released back into the wild. There are also reports of illegal sales of deer meat in surrounding areas ahead of the festival.
Officials warn that poachers tend to become more active during Eid, targeting deer and other wildlife. In response, intensified patrols and surveillance have been ordered across all forest stations and outposts.
Khulna Conservator of Forests Imran Ahmed said forest guards have already strengthened patrol operations. “We have instructed all officers and field staff to maintain strict surveillance to curb poaching, prevent piracy, and ensure the safety of tourists during Eid,” he said.
Nearly a thousand forest officers and staff have been discouraged from taking leave during the holiday period.
Officials said leave has not been formally canceled, but personnel are being urged to remain on duty unless absolutely necessary. They will be allowed to take their leave in phases after Eid.
Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the East Sundarbans Division, Md Rezaul Karim, said on Sunday that the decision was taken in light of recent security concerns. “Completely canceling leave would be inhumane. Instead, we are discouraging it to ensure adequate protection of the forest. Officers and staff are voluntarily complying and will be able to take leave after Eid,” he said.