During the breeding season, numerous sea turtles have been found dead along the Cox’s Bazar coastline. Over the past week, at least 20 female turtles have washed ashore along a three-kilometer stretch of the beaches of Sonarpara in Ukhiya and Pechar Island in Ramu. All of the turtles carried eggs in their bodies.
Local fisherman Syed Ullah reported that dead turtles are appearing almost daily. Most of these turtles show signs of injury. Yesterday alone, he observed 10 to 12 dead turtles floating in the water.
Experts say that female turtles come ashore from the deep sea to lay eggs during the breeding season. On the way, they often get trapped in fishing nets or suffer injuries, leading to death.
Md. Abdul Kaiyum, a researcher at Radiant Research and Education Center, noted that over the past two months, approximately 60 to 70 dead turtles have washed ashore, particularly on Sonadia Island, beaches near Marine Drive, in Teknaf, and at Saint Martin.
Khondkar Mahmud Pasha, Deputy Director of the Department of Environment, Cox’s Bazar office, emphasized that sea turtles play a crucial role in maintaining marine ecosystems and natural balance.
He stressed that coordinated efforts, strict monitoring, and increased public awareness are essential to ensure a safe and undisturbed breeding season for these turtles.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
File Photo
