Red crabs under threat in Kuakata

About five km east from Kuakata zero point and nearly three km west from Kuakata main point in Kalapara upazila, there lies  an attractive spot -- Lal Kakrar Char (shoal of red crab) – giving a picturesque look for the tourists from home and abroad.

But the lives of the crabs are under threat as motorcyclists ply the area randomly, thanks to the authorities' negligence.

During low tide thousands of crabs come out of the holes on the beach and the area turns into the red island of scenic beauty, said Abul Kasem, a tourist from Khulna.

Another tourist from Dhaka Anmul Haque said he visited the spot for the first time this year and its scenic beauty, especially the red crab, really stole his heart.

But the spots are not protected as many motorcyclists run on the beach randomly and due to this, the red crabs are often found injured or dead, said environmentalists.

Local environmentalist Rumman Imtiaz Tushar blamed a section of hired motorcyclists for the situation.

The authorities concerned should take immediate steps to save the red crabs, he said, adding that signboard also should be hung at these spots to make people aware about the matter.

Noted environmentalist Dr Inun Nishat said the main work of red crab is to keep good health of soil and it always digs soil very well.

Immediate steps should be taken to save them for keeping the environment well, he said, adding that forest department can play a vital role in the matter and there is no alternative to make people aware about the matter as well.

All should always show sympathy for all wildlife considering the environment, he said.

Mohipur Forest Rrange Officer Abul Kalam Azad said steps will be taken after discussion with the higher authorities.

Upazila Nirbahi Officer Md Tanveer Rahman, also the member of Kuakata Beach Management Committee, said all possible steps will be taken to preserve bio-diversity in the area.

Separate zones for tourists also would be managed, he added.