Fisheries officials rescued a 32.5 kg turtle tied roadside in Shibchar and released it into the Padma River, thwarting an attempted illegal sale and highlighting urgent wildlife protection needs.
Authorities from the Fisheries Department rescued a 32.5-kilogram turtle from a roadside in Shibchar upazila on Sunday and safely released it into the Padma River. Conservationists say incidents like this highlight the need for greater public awareness and strict enforcement of wildlife protection laws to prevent illegal trade and preserve Bangladesh’s rich aquatic biodiversity.
The turtle was found tied with a rope near Barhamganj College around midday. Officials said it had been caught in fishing nets in Chandpur by local fishermen who brought it to Shibchar intending to sell it in the local market. The two fishermen reportedly planned to sell it at 15 Bangladeshi taka per kilogram, roughly 0.17 USD per kilogram.
Satyajit Majumdar, Senior Upazila Fisheries Officer, said, “Someone had tied the turtle by the roadside. We were informed and immediately went to rescue it. We released it into the Padma River near the Kathalbari area. The identities of those involved are not yet known.”
The rescued turtle is believed to be a marine species. The incident highlights the ongoing threats wildlife face in local markets where the capture and sale of protected species can endanger biodiversity and disrupt fragile ecosystems. Swift action by authorities ensured the animal’s safety and its return to its natural habitat.
