TDS Desk:

Dozens of dead livestock have been seen floating in the waters of the Meghna River’s eastern banks in various parts of Lakshmipur district, following a tidal surge triggered by a low-pressure system in the Bay of Bengal.

Local residents believe the animals — mostly cows, buffaloes, and goats — were washed away and killed by the strong current and high tide that swept through the many char areas. They said many more animals remain missing.

During a visit to the Nabiganj, Hajiganj, and Nasirganj areas this evening (May 30), at least eight carcasses — two buffaloes and six cows — were seen floating in the river.

Abdul Kader, a resident of Char Lawrence that he saw nearly 50 dead animals, including cows, goats, and buffaloes, floating down the river this morning.

Another local, Morshed, reported seeing nine cow carcasses near the Katoria canal around 10am.

Md Shahjahan of Char Falcon claimed to have seen 26 animal carcasses drifting by afternoon as the tide rose.

Ismail, a resident of Nabiganj, said, “Five out of my 13 buffaloes have gone missing.”

Citing local herders, he noted that at least 200 livestock have gone missing from various chars in the district.

Md Ala Uddin from Teliar Char in Ramgati upazila reported that hundreds of animals from Teliar Char and Char Abdullah were swept away by the surging tide.

“We will get the actual figure of the missing livestock after a couple of days,” he said.

Md Belal, a resident of Char Abdullah, said, “Two local farmers lost seven animals including cows, buffaloes, and goats.”

Despite repeated attempts, Lakshmipur District livestock officer could not be reached for comment.

However, District Relief and Rehabilitation Officer Abul Hossain told TBS that no major damage occurred in Lakshmipur. “I was unaware of any reports of missing or dead animals.”

Kamalnagar Upazila Nirbahi Officer (UNO) Rahat Uz Zaman said, “We have heard of dead livestock floating in the Meghna but have not yet confirmed which specific areas were affected.”