Cox’s Bazar, Dec 22 (V7N) — A dolphin with multiple injury marks on its body was found dead after washing ashore at Monkhali Sea Beach in Ukhiya upazila of Cox’s Bazar district on Sunday morning.
Local residents spotted the large dolphin lying on the sandy shoreline after it was carried in by waves early Sunday. The carcass remained on the beach until evening, emitting a strong odor, with clear signs of injuries visible on various parts of its body.
Abu Taher, a resident of Monkhali, confirmed the incident, saying the dolphin had been seen on the beach since morning and appeared to have suffered serious injuries before death.
Local schoolteacher Elias Hossain said the dolphin may have been fatally injured after becoming entangled in fishing nets or being struck by a boat propeller. However, he emphasized that a proper investigation by the relevant authorities is required to determine the exact cause of death.
He also expressed concern over the repeated appearance of dead dolphins along the coastal areas in recent days, stressing the urgent need for effective measures to protect marine biodiversity.
Ukhiya Upazila Nirbahi Officer Rifat Asma said necessary steps would be taken to remove the dolphin carcass promptly.
Earlier, on December 18, another dead Irrawaddy dolphin with visible injury marks washed ashore at Baharchhara North Shilkhali Sea Beach in Teknaf, raising further alarm among environmental observers and local communities.
Comment: