A growing number of households in Dinajpur are turning to modern tank-based aquaculture to produce native fish species, overcoming water scarcity and the lack of ponds while achieving strong yields.
The method is gaining traction in at least five unions of Parbatipur Upazila, including Chandipur, Mominpur and Palashbari, where residents are installing tanks in their yards to rear fish.
The initiative began as a pilot with technical support from Hajee Mohammad Danesh Science and Technology University Faculty of Fisheries and financial assistance from Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation and MBSK.
Each tank, with a capacity of 20,000 to 25,000 litres and a height of around 4 to 4.5 feet, is used to cultivate high-value native species such as Vietnamese koi, shing, magur and tilapia.
The system relies on water filtration and reuse, with artificial oxygen supplied to maintain optimal conditions for fish growth.
Local farmers said the method is more profitable than traditional pond-based farming.
Entrepreneurs such as Zahidul Islam, Shahida Begum and Faruk Ahmed have already achieved financial self-reliance through the system.
Fish can be harvested two to three times a year, becoming market-ready within three to four months.
The produce is selling at Tk300 to Tk400 per kilogram.
The approach is also enabling women to participate easily in aquaculture, contributing to economic empowerment at the household level.
Fisheries officials said the system reduces feed waste and overall costs compared to conventional methods.
Water quality is easier to maintain, and the spread of diseases can be better controlled.
The technique is particularly effective in drought-prone areas where ponds often dry up, while the use of clean water and artificial oxygen keeps fish mortality to a minimum.
At present, the system is being used in 105 tanks across Parbatipur municipality and surrounding unions.
The success of the initiative is drawing interest from neighbouring upazilas, with new entrepreneurs visiting to learn about the model.
District fisheries authorities have identified the approach as a viable solution and are continuing to support its expansion.
