Khulna:The government has announced plans to establish a laboratory to detect poison used in fishing within the Sundarbans. This initiative aims to curtail the illegal practice of poison fishing, which poses significant environmental and health risks.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Forest Department hopes that the laboratory will facilitate scientific testing and provide crucial evidence in legal cases involving poison use in fishing. The project proposal will be sent to the Ministry of Environment, Forest and Climate Change and subsequently to the Executive Committee of the National Economic Council for approval. The project, expected to launch next year, will be funded by the World Bank.
Md. Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, East Divisional Forest Officer of the Sundarbans, noted the challenges faced in proving poison fishing cases due to the lack of immediate testing facilities. Despite regular enforcement efforts, including arrests and seizures, the absence of prompt scientific testing makes it difficult to secure convictions in court. From June to August, 73 cases were filed regarding poison fishing, leading to the arrest of 62 individuals and the seizure of significant quantities of fish and equipment.
Environmental experts warn that the use of poison can harm aquatic ecosystems, disrupt biodiversity, and pose health risks to humans consuming contaminated fish. Professor Dr. Abdullah Harun Chowdhury of Khulna University suggested that the government could develop testing facilities with the help of various national departments and import testing kits as an interim solution.
Imran Ahmed, Forest Conservator for the Khulna region, highlighted the involvement of the United Nations Food and Agriculture Organization in addressing the issue, although progress has been slow. Efforts are underway to establish the testing laboratory with World Bank assistance.
The need for scientific testing is underscored by reports from researchers and health professionals. A Khulna University researcher observed a strong smell in fish at local markets, indicating potential contamination. Dr. Sujat Ahmed from Khulna Medical College Hospital warned about the health risks of consuming contaminated fish, which could lead to serious diseases.
Recently, the Forest Department identified a political activist as the alleged mastermind behind poison fishing activities in the Sundarbans, emphasizing the severe impact of this practice on the environment and economy of the world's largest mangrove forest.