A dolphin from Halda being preserved at Science Museum

A dolphin found dead in the Halda River has been preserved in the National Science and Technology Museum. The dolphin was collected from the Halda Research Lab under the Zoology Department of Chittagong University on Sunday. The dolphin was handed over to Mohammad Munir Chowdhury, Director General of the National Science and Technology Museum by the Chairman of Zoology Department and the Director of Halda Research Lab and river expert Dr. Md. Manjurul Kibria. On this occasion, a seminar was organized under the initiative of National Science and Technology Museum. Senior officials of the Fisheries Department, university professors and students participated in the seminar. The seminar identified the reasons for the destruction of dolphins in the Halda River and presented various recommendations for the protection of dolphins. In the seminar, Director General of National Science and Technology Museum Mohammad Munir Chowdhury said, “Dolphins are true friends of man and essential companion of life. Administrative action, public awareness, application of science and technology should be coordinated to protect this innocent animal. If necessary, GPS trackers should be installed on every boat plying on the river and scientifically sound surveillance should be ensured through AIS technology. Exemplary punishment should be given to dolphin killers and whistleblowers should be rewarded. Besides, the government's incentive package should quickly reach the fishermen's homes during the ban period. The movement of noise polluting boats in the river should be restricted. Aquatic life is affected by noise pollution. The Administration, Fisheries Department and Naval Police have to play a responsible role in protecting the biodiversity of the river. Halda River is a unique natural resource of the Creator. Not only the administration, a team should be formed with the students of the university to take a massive motivation program in the river and riverside areas. Not only policing, students also have to be in the role of guarding the river. Everyone has to come down to the field and collectively take a vow to save the river and the dolphins. The Science Museum will provide full cooperation in setting up a 'River Museum' at Chittagong University to save the dolphins and mother fish that have died so far." Chittagong University Zoology Department Professor Dr. Md Manjurul Kibria and Chittagong District Fisheries Officer Farhana Lovely spoke on the occasion.