Cumilla:Experts and policymakers from South Asia are advocating for enhanced regional cooperation, technology exchange, and community-driven initiatives to foster climate-resilient fisheries and aquaculture. These efforts are in response to escalating threats from floods, droughts, rising sea levels, and increasing salinity, which jeopardize fisheries resources and rural livelihoods across the region.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the call for action was made during the opening session of a three-day regional workshop titled 'Community-Based Climate-Resilient Aquaculture Development in South Asia,' held at the Bangladesh Academy for Rural Development (BARD) in Cumilla. The event was jointly organized by the SAARC Agriculture Centre (SAC) and Shikkha Shastha Unnayan Karzakram (SHISUK).
The workshop features around 50 representatives from SAARC member countries including Bangladesh, Bhutan, the Maldives, Nepal, Pakistan, and Sri Lanka, as well as participants from Thailand and Malaysia. Discussions are centered on strategies to address climate risks in fisheries and aquaculture, sharing adaptation experiences, and exploring opportunities for sustainable production systems.
Professor Dr. Md Abdul Wahab of Bangladesh Maritime University, in his keynote address, underscored the potential for regional cooperation to build climate resilience in the fisheries and aquaculture sectors. He stressed the importance of knowledge and technology exchange among South Asian nations to tackle shared climate challenges.
Dr. Md Shariful Islam from the SAARC Agriculture Centre welcomed the attendees, highlighting the necessity of exchanging country-specific experiences and expanding community-based initiatives to bolster climate adaptation in the sector. SHISUK Executive Director Saqiul Millat Morshed echoed the importance of local community involvement and enhancing fish farmers' capacities for sustainable aquaculture.
The Director General of the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, Dr. Md Latiful Islam, emphasized the crucial role of research and innovation in adapting fisheries to climate change. Meanwhile, Tanvir Ahmed Torafdar, a representative of the SAARC Secretariat, called for regional cooperation and knowledge sharing to tackle common climate challenges in South Asia.
Shabnam Shivakoti, Chairperson of the SAC Governing Board, advocated for stronger regional cooperation and institutional partnerships to enhance climate resilience in fisheries and aquaculture. Dr. Md Golam Mahabub, SAC Agricultural Director, reiterated the need for cooperation, knowledge exchange, and community participation to expand climate-resilient aquaculture and protect livelihoods across the region.
Participants will assess climate risks, share experiences in climate-smart aquaculture, and develop country-specific action plans. As part of the workshop, they will also visit the successful Daudkandi-Cumilla floodplain model in Bangladesh to gain practical insights into sustainable aquaculture and floodplain resource management.