In the last 12 years, more than 100 shushuks and dolphins have been found dead in the Sundarbans.
While, on the outset, the statistics might not sound like a reason for alarm for many, considering the important role that dolphins play in our marine eco-system, and just how dependent Bangladeshis are on fish, it is of the utmost importance that efforts are taken to conserve the population of dolphins within our borders.
The majority of dolphin deaths occur when they become ensnared in commercial fishing nets in rivers, causing them to suffocate. While there are laws in place that deter the hunting, consumption, and solicitation of anything related to dolphins, they cannot do anything to stop accidental deaths.
We need to start taking conservation more seriously.
It is not only dolphins, of course. Statistics show a steep decline in the overall population of tigers in Bangladesh, and this just goes to show how little impact any administrative efforts have had towards conservation efforts.
Back in 2013, the nation witnessed a devastating oil spill in the Sundarbans, which was deemed a “World Heritage in Danger” by the World Heritage Committee. Due to sheer negligence and malpractice, our biodiversity has taken a massive hit that ended up in scores of flora and fauna being killed.
This attitude needs to change.
We need to have a conversation about conservation if we wish to retain the scenic beauty of Bangladesh, and make our nation a friendlier place for all forms of life.
