Wherever I turn, there’s a problem: Adviser Rizwana

Environment, Forest and Climate Change Adviser Syeda Rizwana Hasan said, “Wherever I turn, there’s a problem. Since I took charge, 12 elephants have died. We have taken several initiatives, including forming Anti-Depredation Squads (ADS), Elephant Response Teams (ERT), and Elephant Rescue Teams (ERT) near elephant reserves to strengthen conservation efforts.”

She made these remarks on Wednesday (August 20) during a discussion at the Forest Department headquarters (Bon Bhaban) to mark World Elephant Day 2025.

Syeda Rizwana Hasan stressed the importance of ending the use of elephants for entertainment and profit. She said, “The interim government is taking several measures to protect elephants, including restoring natural forests and establishing elephant sanctuaries.”

During the World Elephant Day discussion, experts highlighted that wildlife conservation still lacks political priority. They emphasized that relying on studies over 10 years old is not sufficient for effective conservation. They called for measures to control elephant breeding, ensure adequate food supply, and urged the immediate implementation of a borderless management protocol.