Fisheries, Livestock, and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid announced today that the government will establish new fish sanctuaries in haor and wetland areas under a new system by replacing conventional leasing of jolmohals to boost local freshwater fish production. The minister made this announcement after visiting the National Fisheries Fortnight-2026 venue at Achmita George Institute Mini Stadium in Katiadi upazila.
New Framework for Water Bodies
The introduction of a new system for water bodies, or jolmohals, under a new framework is currently underway. This initiative aims at protecting the interests of the local people. The country's haor, wetlands, rivers, and water bodies were once abundant with local fishes, but the extensive use of pesticides, chemical fertilizers, depleting aquatic habitats, and declining natural sanctuaries have led to a reduction in freshwater fishes.
Protecting Fish Eggs and Fry
To tackle this issue, the government plans to construct deep reservoirs and large enclosures in haors and wetlands to ensure safe breeding grounds and preservation for fish. Minister Rashid emphasized that protecting fish eggs and fry will naturally rebuild the country's aquatic biomass. He also expressed concern over the presence of micro-plastics in both wild and farmed fish worldwide, which primarily accumulate in their digestive tracts and gills.
Crackdown on Destructive Fishing Nets
On the crackdown against destructive "China Duari" fishing nets, the minister said these small-mesh traps destroy aquatic biodiversity by capturing fry and mature fish alike. He called for strict administrative action alongside community support to eliminate their use. To support vulnerable fishers during seasonal ban periods, the government continues to provide registered fishers with food assistance and alternative livelihood support.
New Legislation and Community Support
"We want Bangladesh to reclaim its heritage as a land abundant in fish," Minister Rashid added, mentioning that new legislation to reform water body management and integrate agricultural and fisheries policies is currently being drafted for parliamentary submission. Earlier, the Minister inspected prospective sites for fish fry release along the Old Brahmaputra River at Thana Ghat Isakha Bridge, Bahadia Pathanbari Ghat, and Chairman Bari Ghat near Mirzapur Government Primary School in Pakundia Upazila.
