Bangladesh is taking a significant and heartwarming step towards protecting its elephant population by planning a new wildlife sanctuary in the country’s northeastern region. This initiative, set to become the nation’s 57th protected area, aims to provide a much-needed safe haven for a herd of elephants that have been navigating a challenging situation since 2019. These magnificent creatures, believed to have journeyed from India’s Meghalaya state, found themselves caught in the border region after their traditional cross-border routes were unfortunately disrupted by Indian border fencing. For several years, these “non-resident” elephants have been moving through agricultural areas in Bangladeshi districts like Sherpur, Mymensingh, and Netrokona. This movement has, at times, led to increasing encounters between humans and elephants, sometimes with difficult outcomes for both. Farmers have faced crop damage, and sadly, there have been incidents of harm to both people and elephants. The Ministry of Environment, Forests, and Climate Change is leading this important effort with the dual goal of both protecting the land and significantly reducing these conflicts, fostering a more peaceful coexistence. Beyond establishing this new reserve, meaningful discussions are ongoing with India to find a lasting solution that truly considers the elephants’ natural migration patterns. Experts emphasize how vital it is to restore current elephant corridors that cross borders, enabling these animals, known for their long migrations, to travel safely and freely between their different homes. A comprehensive plan is also being considered, which includes training local teams to skillfully respond to elephant movements and encouraging farmers to grow different types of crops that might be less appealing to elephants, helping to guide them away from valuable farmlands. While establishing a new protected area is undoubtedly a positive and forward-looking move, its long-term success will also depend on careful and collaborative management, especially since the proposed 200-square-kilometer area already has many people living within its boundaries. International cooperation is seen as a key factor in these vital conservation efforts, building on existing agreements and declarations between Bangladesh and India. This combined approach of dedicated local action and strong cross-border collaboration offers a truly promising path forward, ensuring a brighter future for these majestic animals and promoting harmony with human communities.
