Rangamati: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhtar announced today that the national elections will be conducted next February, as declared by the Chief Adviser (CA). ‘We are moving forward with that process . . . Election Commission will announce the election schedule,’ Farida stated to reporters outside the Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) office following a meeting with stakeholders of Kaptai Lake at the DC conference room.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farida addressed the critical issue of Kaptai Lake’s condition, highlighting that dredging is the primary demand from all parties involved. She pointed out the growing levels of pollution in the lake and mentioned that a decision would be reached soon after discussions with the local government, the Ministry of Environment, and other relevant parties.
Farida explained that silt accumulation has decreased the water level in Kaptai Lake, making it difficult for large fish to inhabit the upper water layers, which has led to an increase in smaller fish populations. She emphasized the need for collective action from the government and local communities to protect the lake.
The meeting was chaired by Rangamati Local Government Department Deputy Director Md. Mobarak Hossain and moderated by Additional Deputy Commissioner Md. Ruhul Amin. Notable attendees included Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation Chairperson Farah Shammi, District Civil Surgeon Dr. Nuen Khisa, and other district and community leaders.
The meeting began with a video presentation by District BFDC Manager Commander Mohammad Faiz Al Karim, illustrating various issues and opportunities related to Kaptai Lake. The adviser is also scheduled to visit significant sites such as the Kaptai Karnaphuli Hydropower Plant, BFDC’s Kaptai Sub-Station, and the BFIDC site later in the day.