Dhaka: The SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) on Tuesday organised a regional webinar focusing on the growing impacts of climate change on fisheries across South Asia and the need for coordinated adaptation strategies. Titled 'Climate Change and Fisheries in South Asia,' the virtual event brought together regional experts and policymakers to discuss emerging risks to marine and freshwater fisheries and explore ways to strengthen climate-resilient fisheries systems.
According to United News of Bangladesh, SAC Director Md. Harunur Rashid highlighted that climate change is increasingly affecting fisheries and aquatic ecosystems across South Asia, posing new challenges to fish production and the livelihoods of millions who depend on the sector. Rashid pointed out that rising temperatures, erratic rainfall, floods, and changes in water quality are exerting additional pressure on fisheries resources. He emphasized the importance of strengthening regional collaboration, knowledge sharing, and research to build climate-resilient fisheries systems.
Among the keynote speakers, BK Das, Director of ICAR-Central Inland Fisheries Research Institute (ICAR-CIFRI), noted that climate variability is significantly impacting freshwater fisheries by altering river flows and aquatic habitats. He stressed the necessity of adaptive management practices and sustainable resource use to protect inland fisheries in the region.
Sevvandi Jayakody, Chair Professor at the Department of Aquaculture and Fisheries of Wayamba University of Sri Lanka, underscored the growing vulnerability of marine and coastal fisheries. She indicated that rising sea temperatures and extreme weather events are increasingly affecting marine ecosystems and fish stocks, emphasizing the need for stronger research collaboration and regional knowledge sharing.
In his concluding remarks, Tanvir Ahmad Torophder, Director (ARD and SDF) of the SAARC Secretariat, highlighted the importance of regional cooperation in addressing climate change impacts on fisheries. He noted that fisheries play a crucial role in ensuring food security, nutrition, and livelihoods across South Asia. Torophder called for enhanced collaboration among SAARC member states to promote sustainable and climate-resilient fisheries management.
Md Shariful Islam, Senior Program Specialist (Fisheries) at SAC, moderated the event and highlighted key regional challenges, including salinity intrusion in coastal areas, changing hydrological patterns, and increasing climate variability. He emphasized the need for integrated management approaches and coordinated regional action to protect fisheries resources and the livelihoods of fishing communities.
The event concluded with an interactive discussion where participants from different SAARC countries shared experiences and perspectives on addressing climate change impacts in the fisheries sector. They stressed that climate-smart management and regional cooperation will be essential for ensuring the long-term sustainability of fisheries in South Asia.