Rajshahi:Digging ponds on land previously used for paddy and other traditional crops to farm fish has completely transformed the rural economy of the Rajshahi division.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, fresh fish like Rui, Katla, and various carp species from the ponds of this region are reaching at least 28 districts of the country, including the capital Dhaka. Due to a system of transporting fish alive using special technology, more than Taka 20 crore worth of fish is being traded daily from the Rajshahi division.
The Department of Fisheries reports that there are currently 4,49,653 ponds across the division, with about 1,65,706 farmers engaged in fish farming. The total annual fish production in the division is approximately 5,96,467 metric tons. After meeting local demand, an additional 1.5 lakh metric tons of fish are being sent to other parts of the country.
Around 3 lakh people have found employment in this region centered solely on production and marketing, with a significant portion of the fish also being exported abroad. As traditional agricultural production has become less profitable, many farmers in the Rajshahi region have turned to commercial fish farming, which has proven more lucrative.
Saifuddin Yahia, Divisional Director of the Department of Fisheries, noted that mixed farming technology, once confined to Rajshahi district, has now spread to all 8 districts of the division, including Natore and Naogaon. The inclusion of high-value fish like Pabda, Shing, Koi, and Magur has also allowed farmers to penetrate international markets, particularly with exports to India.
The innovative method of transporting fish, which involves using shallow machines for artificial water flow on trucks, ensures the fish remain alive until they reach their destination, enhancing their market value. Despite logistical challenges, such as increased costs for processed fish feed and transportation, the sector continues to thrive and contribute significantly to the national economy.