Dhaka:The government has launched a significant initiative to boost fish production in 29 wetlands, known as baors, to improve the livelihoods of fishing communities across four southwestern districts after a 15-year hiatus.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Department of Fisheries has proposed a five-year project called ‘Community-Based Fisheries Resource Management in Selected Baor Areas,’ with an estimated cost of Taka 47.55 crore. The project seeks to increase fish production by at least 10 percent in the targeted waterbodies while enhancing the socioeconomic conditions of genuine fishermen.
The project will be implemented in 29 baors located in the Jashore, Jhenaidah, Chuadanga, and Kushtia districts. Key activities of the project include excavating silted-up waterbodies, establishing fish sanctuaries, improving fish fry production facilities, providing training, and strengthening community-based fisheries management.
A budget of Taka 11.22 crore has been allocated for excavating selected sections of the wetlands to enhance their depth and water-holding capacity, creating suitable habitats for fish during the dry season. Furthermore, Taka 2.32 crore is proposed for establishing fish sanctuaries in all 29 baors to protect native species and ensure natural breeding.
The project also includes Taka 1.73 crore for renovating 35 existing fish fry production ponds, Taka 1.4 crore for farm mechanization, and Taka 1.2 crore for installing six deep tubewells to secure a water supply. Additionally, Taka 7.3 crore has been earmarked for the reconstruction of six deteriorating baor management office buildings.
The plan involves establishing 290 beel nurseries over five years with a budget of Taka 2.9 crore and releasing carp and native fish fingerlings into designated waterbodies at a cost of Taka 7.6 crore.
The initiative began in 2025 when the then Jashore Deputy Commissioner initiated project development to increase fish production in the region's wetlands. Following discussions with ministry officials, the project received approval in principle in January 2026, and the Development Project Proposal (DPP) was submitted to the Planning Commission.
Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Md Delwar Hossain stated that the project aims to foster an effective management system by involving local fishing communities. Designated areas will be established as fish sanctuaries, with restricted fishing to facilitate natural fish breeding.
Director General (in-charge) of the Department of Fisheries Dr. Md Khaled Kanak indicated that the initiative would help restore degraded wetlands and improve the living standards of poor fishing communities. He emphasized the importance of updating the list of genuine fishermen, as outdated membership records have posed challenges in ensuring fair distribution of benefits.
Officials anticipate that the project will not only achieve the targeted 10 percent increase in fish production but also establish a sustainable, community-led management system that will continue to benefit local fishermen beyond the project's five-year timeline.