Bangladesh has yet to fully understand the extent and nature of its marine resources, said Farida Akhter, adviser on Fisheries and Livestock. She emphasised the need for an integrated plan to identify and utilize the country’s oceanic assets effectively.
Speaking as the chief guest at the inter-ministerial final validation workshop of the Marine Special Plan (MSP) web-GIS platform on Tuesday at the SEAFDEC auditorium, she said, “The recommendations provided in the Marine Special Plan must be carefully evaluated for practical implementation.” The workshop was organised by the Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries Project under the Department of Fisheries.
Akhter noted that the Chief Adviser Professor Muhammad Yunus has prioritised marine and deep-sea fisheries, directing the ministry to work more extensively in this area. “While our ministry has been working on inland fisheries, efforts related to deep-sea fisheries have been limited,” she said.
Highlighting the importance of protecting fishermen, the adviser said, “Without safeguarding the livelihood of fishers and stakeholders, increased fish production cannot translate into sustainable benefits. Opportunities and facilities for those involved must be enhanced.”
She also stressed environmental considerations, stating, “No development should destroy the ecosystem. Our plans, no matter how advanced, must ensure environmental and social balance. Wildlife and nature cannot be harmed under any circumstances.”
Akhter further emphasised species-specific planning, noting that different fish require distinct habitats and food sources. “For instance, hilsa requires a particular environment based on its habitat and diet, which is different from other fish. Appropriate conditions must be ensured for each species,” she said.
The workshop also featured Abu Taher Muhammad Jaber, secretary of the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, as a special guest. He highlighted the need for a dedicated authority to oversee marine resource management and implement precise planning.
The event was presided over by Dr Md Abdur Rouf, director general of the Department of Fisheries, with opening remarks by Md Zia Haider Chowdhury, director of the Sustainable Coastal and Marine Fisheries Project (SCMFP).
