163 Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings found on Kuakata beach

163 Olive Ridley turtle hatchlings found on Kuakata beach

Patuakhali: A rare sight has been created by 163 baby turtles hatching on the sandbanks of Kuakata sea beach in Patuakhali. The baby turtles were rescued from a hole under an abandoned shop adjacent to the beach in Lemburbon area of Kuakata on Tuesday afternoon. Later, the forest department, upazila administration and environmental workers in coordination with the forest department, upazila administration and environmental workers safely released the babies into the mouths of three rivers adjacent to the Andharmanik River.

Olive Ridley sea turtle babies being released into the sea in Kuakata on Tusday 19 May 2026.

According to local sources, after being closed for a long time, businessman Md. Bayezid of Lemburbon area went to open his fish fry shop on Tuesday morning. At that time, he became suspicious when he saw small baby turtles moving in the sand under the shop. Later, after further investigation, he found that there were numerous baby turtles inside the hole.

The local voluntary organization 'Upara' was immediately informed about the matter and its members went to the spot and rescued the babies.

After the rescue, the members of the Coastal Environment Protection Movement 'Upara' informed the Forest Department and Upazila Administration. Later, the babies were released into the sea-facing water in a safe environment in the presence of the concerned. Local environmental activists and conscious citizens were also present at the time.

KM Bachchu, convener of the Coastal Environment Protection Movement 'Upara', said that these are basically Olive Ridley sea turtle babies. We also found egg shells while rescuing them. It is believed that the mother turtle had laid eggs here a few days ago. The eggs hatched naturally and the babies came out. However, since the place was under an abandoned shop, they were unable to go to the sea.

Ruman Imtiaz Tushar, team leader of the Kuakata Dolphin Protection Committee, said that the Kuakata coast is very important for marine biodiversity. Olive Ridley turtles usually lay their eggs on quiet beaches. Locals need to be more aware of protecting such animals. If anyone sees turtle eggs or babies, they should not harm them and immediately inform the forest department.

Mahipur Range Officer Moniruzzaman said that the rescued baby turtles have been safely released. Sea turtles are very important animals for the environment. The forest department is regularly monitoring their movement and reproduction in coastal areas.

Kalapara Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Kawsar Hamid said that this is a very positive incident. The role of local voluntary organizations and conscious people in protecting the environment is commendable. The administration will also continue to provide all kinds of cooperation in preserving marine biodiversity. - UNB