Rajshahi:World Migratory Bird Day was marked in Rajshahi through a collaborative effort by the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Forum and Bangladesh Poribesh Andolon (BAPA) to promote awareness about bird conservation and habitat protection.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a discussion meeting took place at Rajshahi Adhunik Pathagar near Padma Garden, emphasizing the significance of migratory birds, safe migration practices, prevention of hunting and trafficking, and public involvement in biodiversity conservation.
The meeting was presided over by Engineer Junaid Ahmed, the founder and general secretary of the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Forum. Key attendees included Jamat Khan, general secretary of Rajshahi Rokkha Sangram Parishad; Selina Begum, general secretary of BAPA Rajshahi District Committee; and Mizanur Rahman, vice-president of the Bangladesh Biodiversity Conservation Federation.
Prominent speakers such as Prof Dr B.K. Dam, president of the Nature and Biodiversity Conservation Forum, and Shamsuzzoha Sarkar, general secretary of Dustha Manab Kallayan Sangstha, addressed the gathering. Rahima Begum and Yusuf Ali Chowdhury, president and general secretary of the BAPA Paba Upazila Branch, respectively, also contributed to the discussions.
The speakers underscored the essential role of birds in preserving ecological balance and biodiversity. They highlighted how birds assist in maintaining the food chain, controlling pests, aiding crop production, and facilitating flower pollination. Furthermore, birds were described as biological indicators of environmental health, with their presence adding aesthetic value and joy to nature.
In conclusion, the speakers stressed the importance of bird protection as a collective moral duty, urging the public to resist bird hunting and implement effective measures to safeguard migratory birds and their environments. Awareness leaflets were distributed along the Padma riverbank to encourage community involvement in bird conservation efforts.