In a first, govt declares two wetlands as 'Wetland-Dependent Wildlife Sanctuaries'

The government has, for the first time, declared two ecologically significant wetlands in Rajshahi district as 'Wetland-Dependent Wildlife Sanctuaries'.

The declaration was made today (7 May) through two separate gazette notifications issued by Forest Wing-2 of the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change, reads a ministry press statement.

The newly declared sanctuaries are: 1.65-acre wetland in Biljowana Mouza under Tanore Upazila, and 15.08-acre wetland in Bilbala Mouza under Godagari Upazila.

These wetlands serve as important winter habitats for both native and migratory birds. Species commonly found include native waterfowl such as Kalem, Kora, Dahuk, Gurguri, Jalpipi, and Jalmojur, as well as various migratory ducks like the Common Teal, Lesser Whistling Duck, Northern Pintail, Piyang Duck, Khunte Duck, and Gadwall. In total, over 100 bird species inhabit these wetlands, alongside amphibians, reptiles, and mammals.

However, increasing human activities and population pressure have placed these wetland ecosystems and their biodiversity under threat. With the new designation as wildlife sanctuaries, these areas will now offer safe habitats for birds and other wildlife. Additionally, they will serve as important sites for education, research, and ecotourism, particularly for students, researchers, and nature enthusiasts.

This declaration has been made under the Wildlife (Conservation and Security) Act, 2012.