BAU students provide relief for livestock in Feni, Moulvibazar

 
In response to the recent flash floods that severely affected Feni and Moulvibazar districts, students from the Faculty of Veterinary Science (FVS) and the Faculty of Animal Husbandry (AH) at Bangladesh Agricultural University (BAU) organized relief efforts, including the provision of animal feed, medical care, and essential medicines for the livestock in these regions.

Rakib Rony, a student of FVS and a coordinator of the relief efforts, confirmed the initiative on Saturday (August 31), reports UNB.

"We have collected a total of six tons of animal feed. On August 28, a team of students transported three tons to Fulgazi, Parshuram, and Chhagalnaiya upazilas in Feni. Another team delivered two and a half tons to Kulaura upazila in Moulvibazar on August 30. The remaining half-ton will be distributed to other flood-affected areas," he said.

The students provided four key services: primary treatment for sick animals, supplementation with vitamins and minerals for animals suffering from various deficiencies, supply of animal feed, and telemedicine support for farmers needing further assistance.

"As BAU students, we stand with both people and animals during their time of need. This effort reflects our commitment to a compassionate cause," Rony added.

C.P. Bangladesh Co. Ltd. was the largest contributor of animal feed, with additional supplies from Innova, Minar Agro, and local pet companies. Pharmaceutical companies like Square, Acme, ACI, Eskayef, and Biolab provided medicines.

Mashsharat Maliha, another FVS student, highlighted the telemedicine service, stating, "Farmers in flood-affected areas have been given contact numbers for veterinarians. They can reach out for advice if their livestock faces any issues."

Prof. Dr. Mahbubul Pratik Siddique from the Department of Microbiology and Hygiene at FVS commented, "Several districts are flood-stricken, and both people and livestock are suffering greatly. Our students have seized the opportunity to serve society, and we are grateful for the university administration's support."

In Feni, students distributed animal feed and medicines to approximately 900 farmers in the flood-hit upazilas, providing technical advice during farm visits.

The district livestock department confirmed a significant shortage of animal feed despite adequate human food supplies.
Dr. Md. Mozammel Haque, District Livestock Officer of Feni, noted that the farmers in the area greatly benefited from the students' efforts.
In Moulvibazar, local farmers reported dire conditions for their livestock, prompting the students' assistance.

Nebash Chandra Pal, Upazila Livestock Officer (Add. Charge) of Kulaura, expressed gratitude, noting that BAU was the first to deliver livestock relief to Kulaura, ahead of any government or private organization.