Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has warned that unplanned and excessive fishing is rapidly depleting fish stocks in the Bay of Bengal. She said the inability to access deep-sea fishing zones and the declining fish catch along coastal areas have together created a worrying situation. For this reason, she emphasised the urgent need for an integrated strategy that encompasses both coastal regions and deep-sea fisheries.
She made these remarks on Tuesday afternoon while speaking as the chief guest at the closing ceremony of the Department of Fisheries’ Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries project, held at a five-star hotel in Dhaka.
The adviser said Bangladesh holds significant potential in marine fisheries, and it must be utilised effectively. She noted that the end of any project offers an opportunity to review its impact and achievements. Although the project’s tenure, supported by the World Bank, officially ends on 28 November this year, she stressed that its activities must continue under the government’s revenue budget. She also expressed optimism that the World Bank may resume its support in the future.
Addressing the issue of women in the fisheries sector, she said only 4 percent of women have so far received fisher cards. While the number is small, she described it as a positive beginning. She noted that society still does not adequately recognise women’s contributions and said efforts are underway across various forums to ensure their rightful acknowledgment. She added that involving women in other related sectors is equally important.
She also highlighted the unexplored potential of marine resources, pointing out that many fish species remain unidentified and that deep-sea fishing has not yet fully begun. Recent surveys, she said, have provided important insights into fish stock levels.
Reflecting on the discussions at COP30, she said climate change has become a major determining factor for marine fisheries. The issue is receiving significant attention at the international level, particularly due to its pronounced impacts on coastal areas. She stressed that climate considerations must be integrated into future planning for the fisheries sector.
The event was chaired by Dr Md Abdur Rouf, Director General of the Department of Fisheries. Fisheries Secretary Abu Taher Muhammad Jaber attended as the special guest.
A summary of the project was presented by Project Director Zia Haider Chowdhury. Senior officials from the ministry and the department, representatives from various forums, and other stakeholders were also present at the event.
