A 45-foot-long baleen whale has drifted near Kuakata in Patuakhali, Bangladesh. Locals spotted the whale around 10:30 a.m. on Wednesday, about two kilometers from the Zero Point area in the Bay of Bengal. Members of the Coastal Environment Protection Movement (UPORA) confirmed the whale’s presence after reaching the site by speedboat.

UPORA convener K.M. Bachchu stated that the whale’s upper skin had peeled off, suggesting it may have died five to six days earlier. Due to sea currents, it might take some time for the carcass to reach the shore. Mahipur Forest Range Officer Moniruzzaman said the Forest Department is aware of the situation, and field officers have already visited the site.

Authorities are consulting higher officials to determine necessary steps for handling the whale carcass and ensuring environmental safety in the coastal area.