What do cows eat? Most people would answer grass, straw, or hay. However, the cows of Cox’s Bazar seem to have adapted to a different diet—polythene, plastic, paper, disposable plates, and cups. Herders no longer need to take their cattle to open fields; the garbage bins and open drains of Cox’s Bazar serve as feeding grounds for these animals. This alarming sight has become so common in the city that many now accept it as usual, though experts warn of severe consequences.
A visit to the municipality’s dumping site along the banks of the Bakkhali River revealed over a hundred cows feeding on plastic and other waste. Similar scenes can be observed near garbage collection points throughout the city and even at waste storage areas near the beach. Interestingly, this issue is absent in the district’s other upazilas.
Experts Sound the Alarm
According to experts, hunger and the lack of proper grazing fields force these herbivorous animals to consume hazardous materials like polythene. This causes food poisoning and illnesses among the cattle and poses serious risks to the environment and human health. They attribute this crisis to unplanned urbanization, the destruction of greenery, a shortage of fodder, and the negligence of livestock owners.
Firsthand Observations
Cows rummaging through roadside bins and alleyway dumpsters are common in the city. Such scenes often shock tourists and visitors unfamiliar with them.
Call for Action
Dr. A.M. Khalekuzzaman, the District Livestock Officer, stated, “Cattle don’t consume waste or plastic by choice. Many animals fail to recover after ingesting such harmful materials. To address this, we must prioritize greenery to reduce the fodder crisis, while raising public awareness about the dangers of neglecting these animals. Livestock owners must ensure safe and proper care for their animals.”
The dire situation underscores the urgent need for sustainable urban planning, better waste management, and a focus on animal welfare to ensure a healthier ecosystem.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Hussain Shetu
