Rajshahi: Rajshahi City Corporation (RCC) has initiated a proposal to rename the Rajshahi Botanical Garden as “Rajshahi Bird Park,” aiming to modernize and reorganize the recreational facility. The proposal is pending approval from the Ministry of Livestock and relevant authorities.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the park, previously known as Rajshahi Central Park and Zoo, was renamed Rajshahi Botanical Garden in 2023. RCC officials stated that the initiative seeks to transform the facility into a bird-focused sanctuary with enhanced environmental and recreational features. The park currently hosts a limited number of animals, including two gharials, spotted deer, and around a hundred pigeons. Officials noted that maintaining a traditional zoo has become challenging due to space limitations and rising maintenance costs.
RCC sources revealed that the park spans nearly 33 acres, but the construction of various facilities over time has reduced the available space for wildlife conservation activities. Officials indicated that the proposed bird park would feature bird sanctuaries, nesting facilities, and colorful bird species to draw visitors and foster an eco-friendly environment.
Veterinary Surgeon of RCC, Dr. Farhad Uddin, mentioned that a letter has been sent to the Ministry of Livestock seeking approval and project allocation for the proposed transformation. “If the ministry approves the proposal, renovation work will begin in phases. We plan to establish bird sanctuaries, create nesting facilities, and introduce 10 to 15 species of birds,” he said.
Dr. Farhad highlighted that the park currently has 129 deer, exceeding its carrying capacity. As per Forest Department guidelines, one deer requires at least 500 square feet of space, while the existing enclosure can accommodate around 80 deer. RCC plans to relocate or sell some excess deer following official procedures with Forest Department approval. “The deer will only be provided for rearing and conservation purposes. They cannot be slaughtered under any circumstances,” he added.
RCC officials noted that the Jalalabad Para Commando Unit in Sylhet has requested five deer for a proposed animal sanctuary. Of them, two deer would be purchased at the government-fixed price of Tk 50,000 each, while three have been sought as a donation.
The park also houses two gharials – a male named Gorai and a female named Padma. Earlier this year, the female gharial laid eggs, but they could not be preserved after falling into the pond unnoticed. Dr. Farhad mentioned that authorities are now taking additional precautions to ensure proper monitoring and conservation support in the future.
Established in 1972, the park was gradually developed with lakes, artificial hills, flower gardens, and various species of animals and birds collected from home and abroad. Over the decades, it became one of the city’s popular recreational spots. At different times, the zoo housed tigers, lions, bears, camels, and hyenas. However, many animals gradually disappeared over the years due to natural deaths and management challenges.
RCC officials expressed hope that the proposed transformation into a bird park will help create a more sustainable, attractive, and conservation-oriented recreational facility for visitors in Rajshahi.