How can we save nilgais?

Nilgai, the largest antelope in Asia, is native to Bangladesh, India, Pakistan and Nepal. The animal was found in plenty in the north of our country until 1940s. Afterwards the animal was declared extinct from this country by the International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN). We are fortunate that Nilgais have reportedly been spotted and recovered again in the past few years in northern districts like Panchagarh, Naogaon, and Chapainawabganj.

Recently, a nilgai was rescued from Shibganj upazila of Chapainawabganj. The animal, kept under the supervision of Border Guard Bangladesh (BGB), is fortunate that it is still alive. Many of these antelopes could not be kept alive while some were recovered dead as they run for their life when chased by people. They are timid in nature, and afraid of humans. In presence of people, the creature gets frightened and can hurt itself.

Most people of our country do not know this basic information. They try to catch the animal whenever they spot it. This is the only reason why we cannot rescue the animal alive. If we can make our people aware of the animal and its importance to our biodiversity, rare nilgais will no longer be rare. We hope the authorities concerned will look into the matter seriously and take necessary action.

Badsha Faysal,

Jurain, Dhaka,

[email protected]