State Minister Sultan Salahuddin Tuku spoke to journalists after visiting Rajshahi Central Park and Zoo, announcing restoration initiative. Photo : BSS

RAJSHAHI, July 13, 2026 (BSS) - State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salahuddin Tuku, MP, today said an initiative would be taken to restore the Rajshahi Central Park and Zoo, once one of the city's main recreational attractions, and redesign it to meet public expectations.

“I have come here with Rajshahi City Corporation Administrator Md. Mahfuzur Rahman Riton to inspect the traditional zoo with a view to modernising it and redeveloping it as a safari park,” he said.

“Officials of the Department of Livestock Services are also accompanying us. A team of experts will be sent very soon, and the next steps will be taken based on their recommendations,” he added.

The state minister said an investigation would be conducted into where the zoo's animals had been relocated and their current condition, and necessary measures would be taken accordingly.

He made the remarks after visiting the Rajshahi Central Park and Zoo.

Mentioning that Prime Minister Tarique Rahman is working tirelessly for the welfare of the people, he said family cards and farmer cards have already been distributed, while canal excavation, nationwide tree plantation programmes, agricultural loan waivers, honorariums for imams and various other public welfare initiatives are being implemented.

"In a short time, the people's government has undertaken numerous initiatives for the welfare of the people," he said.

Referring to the Rajshahi City Corporation Administrator, Tuku said visible progress had been made in city development within a short period under the leadership of Mahfuzur Rahman Riton, particularly in cleanliness and drainage management.

He said extensive tree plantation and various development activities are also underway in Rajshahi.

Tuku also alleged that due to mismanagement and corruption during the previous government, the zoo lost much of its heritage and was pushed to the brink of collapse.

Among others, Director (Administration) of the Department of Livestock Services Dr. Md. Boyzar Rahman, National Zoo Director Dr. Md. Shahinur Alam, Rajshahi City Corporation Chief Executive Officer Md. Rezaul Karim and other senior officials were present during the inspection.