To the left of the Kutupalong TV Tower in Ukhiya, a significant signboard reading “Akij Wildlife Farm” marks the location of a crocodile breeding center.
This farm, established by the Akij Group, is the second largest in South Asia. With 3,500 crocodiles, the center has begun exporting crocodiles abroad, and its popularity as a tourist attraction is rising.
Located near the Myanmar-bordering Kutupalong Rohingya Camp, the farm holds promising economic potential, with an estimated annual income of BDT 400 crore from crocodile exports. Built-in 2008 by the Akij Group on 25 acres of hilly land in Tumbru village in Naikhongchhari’s Ghumdhum, Akij Wildlife Farm has been commercially breeding crocodiles since 2010.
By Rajin Saleh
