‘International Snakebite Awareness Day 2024’ was observed in Dhaka
The Bangladesh Biodiversity Conservation Federation (BBCF) hosted an online seminar and discussion called “International Snakebite Awareness Day 2024” on September 20, 2024, in Dhaka. The news was shared in a press release by the Bangladesh Biodiversity Conservation Federation (BBCF). The seminar aimed to raise awareness about the importance of snake conservation and the dangers of snakebites in the region.
Experts said the seminar featured insights on education and prevention of snakebites, highlighting the importance of community involvement. Keynote speakers included renowned wildlife biologist Abu Sayeed and researcher Adnan Azad.
They discussed snake identification, types of venomous and non-venomous snakes in Bangladesh (with images), snakebite statistics from the past three years, reasons behind snake bites, the use and effectiveness of antivenom, and prevention and awareness measures.
They also emphasized the rescue and release of beneficial snake species rather than killing them. Dr. Molla Rezaul Karim, Chief Advisor of BBCF and Forest Conservator for the Chattogram Region, inaugurated the seminar. The event was moderated by Engineer Junaid Ahmed, General Secretary of BBCF.
A discussion took place after the seminar with notable guests including Professor Dr. Bidhan Chandra Das, Vice-Chancellor of North Bengal International University and BBCF advisor; Professor Dr. Md Jalal Uddin Sardar from Rajshahi University’s Veterinary and Animal Sciences; Monirul Khan, Chairman of the Department of Zoology at Jahangirnagar University; Professor Dr. Farid Ahsan from the University of Chattogram’s Zoology Department; Professor Dr. Sabrina Naz, Director of the Institute of Environmental Sciences at Rajshahi University; Rotarian Dr Hemayetul Islam Arif, General Secretary of the Bangladesh Livestock Society; Md Abdul Wahab, Director of the Center for Development and the Environment; and Md Mizanur Rahman Yousufi, Chairman of SNatureture and Life. The event was chaired by Md Ziaur Rahman, President of BBCF.
The speakers mentioned that the Bangladesh Biodiversity Conservation Federation (BBCF) oversees over 200 social and volunteer groups dedicated to protecting nature, the environment, and biodiversity in remote areas of Bangladesh.
BBCF’s efforts have raised awareness nationwide, leading to quicker antivenom administration and better treatment for snakebite victims, as well as continued snake rescue and release efforts.
The speakers requested that BBCF create a hotline to help snakebite victims get medical treatment and support for wildlife rescue operations.
The contact details for Bangladesh Biodiversity Conservation Federation (BBCF) are:
Email: bbcfbangladesh@gmail.com
Web: bbcfbd.org
Contact: 01728426086, 01915029002.
