The government has officially designated the Halda river and its surrounding 23,422 acres as the fisheries heritage to protect its unique fish species and prevent environmental degradation.
The announcement was made through a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock on Wednesday.
The Halda river, known as the only breeding ground for pure Indian carp in Bangladesh and possibly in South Asia, will now come under strict conservation measures.
According to the gazette, all fishing or hunting of aquatic animals is prohibited, except for supervised collection of fertilized fish eggs during the breeding season.
Activities that could harm habitats, alter the river’s natural landscape, or threaten fish, dolphins, and other aquatic life are banned.
The discharge of household, industrial, or institutional waste into the river is also forbidden, and straightening of river bends or construction of new dams on the river and its canals is prohibited.
Fishing in the 17 canals connected to the river will be restricted during the breeding season from February to July.
Water extraction for new treatment plants or irrigation projects can only be carried out with permission from the Monitoring Committee, which also oversees any research on the river’s aquatic life.
Heavy engine-powered vessels are banned from operating in the sanctuary area between Karnafuli estuary and Nazirhat Bridge. In addition, sand extraction, tobacco cultivation, use of harmful pesticides, and construction of brickfields near the riverbanks are strictly prohibited.
The ministry’s gazette notes that further restrictions or amendments may be introduced over time to ensure effective environmental and ecological management, including adjustments to the heritage boundaries in response to changes in the river’s course.
