The New Nation - Internet Edition

BSS, Rajshahi

A Taka 20.41 crore project is being implemented to enhance fish production in Chalan Beel.

Officials said the Department of Fisheries (DoF) is implementing the project to ensure livelihood security of the wetland people and support the government's poverty reduction efforts through sustainable aquaculture and management

There was a time when the Beel was widely known for its immense resources for fish harvesting across the northern region. The resources are now on the verge of extinction. According to the officials, the three-year 'Chalan Beel Fisheries Development Project' is being implemented in 12 upazilas of Rajshahi, Natore, Naogaon, Bogra, Pabna and Sirajganj districts. The project began in July last year.

Among the objectives of the projects are to increase fish production to meet up nutritional requirement and to preserve fish biodiversity and restore fish habitat

Besides improving employment and socio-economic conditions of fishing communities, landless and fish farmers, the project seeks to involve the target groups with water body management and aquaculture activities and establish their rights in the developed water bodies. Project Director Sawkat Ali told BSS that on its successful implementation the project would help atain the target of annual fish production to 400 kilograms per hectare from 200 kilograms at present

To atain the goal, 160 hectares of ponds, canals, dried rivers and beels will be re-excavated in addition to development of fish sanctuaries on 40 hectares and floodplain on another 20 hectares of water bodies.

Apart from this, some other need-based infrastructures like 298 pipe-culverts, 80 fish sanctuaries, 23-kilometer embankments and three fish landing stations will be constructed.