Monkeys and humans clash in Bangladesh’s Matiranga hills as forests shrink
MATIRANGA CORRESPONDENT
In the Matiranga hills of Bangladesh’s Khagrachhari district, a conflict is escalating between humans and monkeys. The monkeys, their forest habitat destroyed by development, are raiding homes and farms in search of food.
The area’s forests have been cleared for housing and agriculture, leaving the monkeys with nowhere to go. This has forced them into towns and villages, where they damage crops and property. Farmers say they have lost entire harvests to the monkeys, while some residents report their chickens and eggs being stolen.
Some tribal communities have resorted to hunting the monkeys for food, further reducing their numbers. This appears to have lessened the raids on crops, but raises concerns about the long-term survival of the monkey population.
“I cannot grow vegetables anymore because of the monkeys,” said Waliullah, a local farmer. “We need a sanctuary for these animals where they can be safe and have enough to eat.”
Ali Hosen, chairman of Matiranga municipality, said the town is constantly on guard against the monkeys. Abdur Rahim, a local businessman, said people live in fear of the destructive animals.
Ataur Rahman Laskar, a wildlife range officer, said the government must find ways to help people and monkeys coexist.
He suggests strategies such as providing compensation for lost crops, as well as non-lethal methods to deter the monkeys.
