Dhaka: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter today emphasized the need to identify and protect all waterbodies across the country to conserve local fisheries resources. She highlighted this during her keynote speech at a seminar titled ‘Importance of Sanctuaries in Sustainable Fisheries Management and Future Steps to be Taken’ held at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) in the city.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the seminar was organized by the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI). Farida Akhter pointed out the critical role of establishing and protecting sanctuaries for fisheries production, especially as the availability of open waterbodies is decreasing at an alarming rate. She noted that there might have been insufficient attention in policy-making in this area previously, and stressed the current importance being placed on the sector. “We must do whatever is necessary to build open waterbodies,” she added.
Fisheries and Livestock Secretary (Routine Responsibilities) Md Tofazzel Hossain participated in the seminar as the special guest, while BFRI Director General Dr. Anuradha Bhadra presided over the event. Other notable speakers included Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) Chairman Farah Shammi and Director General of the Department of Fisheries Dr Md Abdur Rouf.