Food crisis puts fauna at risk

Persistent food crisis has put the lives of more than 50 animals of different species in danger at Tengragiri eco-park in Taltoli of Borguna district.Local forest department authorities are trying hard to save the animals managing food for them on credit.For expansion of eco-tourism in the reserve forest of Tengragiri, the environment and forest ministry took some initiatives in 2010-11 and 2011-12 fiscal years.The initiatives include building cages for deer, pigs and fishing cats, crocodile breeding centre, picnic spot, rest house and a 1200 metre walkway.Forest official sources said a total of Tk 2.63 crore has been spent in the two fiscal years for the works under the project titled ‘Enhancement of Eco-tourism Facilities’.Under the scheme, at least eight deer, 25 pigs, two fishing cats and three crocodiles were released in the Tengragiri echo park from January to March of the current fiscal year (2012-2013).But the government did little to ensure their treatment and food.Local UP member Salam said a good number of animals have become sickly for want of sufficient food and treatment.Yunus, chairman of Shonakata Union Parishad, said Tengragiri reserve forest is one of the best tourist spots of Bangladesh.So the government needs to take necessary steps to protect its animals.Forest department officials here said as they could not keep the animals starving, they buy foods on credit.The money will be paid after receiving fund from the government, they said.