Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter on Saturday (October 25) said that taking proper care of zoo animals is a moral responsibility. Emphasizing the need for humane treatment, she urged authorities to ensure adequate care and protection for all animals while contributing to biodiversity conservation through the preservation of endangered species.

She made the remarks during a views exchange meeting at the Interpretation Center after visiting the Bangladesh National Zoo.

“The National Zoo is a valuable national asset that reflects our civilization, culture, and values,” the adviser said. “We want to build a zoo that is beautiful, educational, and recreational for all.”

Addressing visitors’ behavior, the adviser noted that some visitors tend to tease animals out of excitement. She called on zoo authorities to take effective measures to prevent such incidents and urged visitors to act responsibly and with empathy.

On modernization efforts, she said permanent solutions to the zoo’s problems depend on modernization. Work is underway under the “Bangladesh National Zoo and Rangpur Zoo Modernization Project,” which will progress once it receives final approval from the Planning Ministry.

The adviser added that BDT 400 million has been allocated under the project to meet urgent needs and stressed full implementation of the Animal Welfare Act 2019 within the zoo.

The meeting was chaired by the Directorate General of the Department of Livestock Services, Dr. Md Abu Sufian. Among others present were National Zoo Director Dr. Mohammad Rafiqul Islam Talukder, Livestock Department Director Dr. Md Boyjar Rahman, and Central Poultry Farm Director Zeenat Sultana.