Lawachara National Park, a vital sanctuary for diverse wildlife in Moulvibazar, is facing a pressing challenge as speed limits for trains and vehicles remain largely ignored, putting its precious inhabitants at severe risk. Despite a government directive issued in 2023 imposing a strict 20 kmph speed limit within the park’s boundaries, the rule is often not followed. This lack of compliance has tragically led to numerous fatalities among the park’s animals, highlighting an urgent need for stronger enforcement and community cooperation to safeguard this unique natural ecosystem. The national park is a vibrant home to approximately 460 species, including rare and endangered animals like various mammals, birds, reptiles, and amphibians. Unfortunately, the railway line and the Sreemangal-Kamalganj road, which cut through the forest, have become dangerous corridors. Data indicates that over 50 animals are tragically killed annually by speeding trains and vehicles, with local conservationists suggesting the actual numbers could be even higher. Beyond direct collisions, the constant noise pollution from fast-moving transport also significantly disrupts the wildlife’s natural behaviors and delicate habitat. Compounding the issue, tourists visiting the park sometimes disregard safety guidelines, walking, sitting, and taking photos on the rail tracks. This poses not only a risk to themselves but also adds to the disturbance within the fragile environment. Park rangers confirm the ongoing challenge of enforcing the speed limits and managing human activity effectively. The existing situation underscores the need for a collective responsibility among all who interact with the park, from transporters to visitors, to prioritize wildlife protection. Solutions have been discussed to mitigate these risks. Ideas such as rerouting the train line or constructing specialized underpasses or overpasses to allow safe wildlife crossings have been considered. While these infrastructure solutions are costly, they represent long-term investments in conservation. In the interim, consistent efforts from the Moulvibazar police and the Forest Department are vital to ensure the imposed speed limits are strictly adhered to. Better supervision and increased manpower for enforcement could significantly reduce animal casualties. Moving forward, effective collaboration among government bodies, local communities, transport operators, and tourists is crucial. Implementing robust awareness campaigns, combined with visible and consistent enforcement, can foster a culture of respect for wildlife and its habitat. By prioritizing the safety of its unique biodiversity through collective action and innovative solutions, Lawachara National Park can truly flourish, ensuring its survival for future generations and preserving Bangladesh’s natural heritage.
