The government is taking steps to establish more fish sanctuaries in haors and wetlands to increase the breeding and production of native freshwater fish, Fisheries and Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammed Aminur Rashid said on Saturday.
He also said initiatives are underway to replace the existing leasing system for water bodies with a new mechanism aimed at protecting the interests of local communities.
The minister made the remarks while talking to journalists after inspecting the venue of the inaugural ceremony of National Fisheries Week 2026 at Achmita George Institution Mini Stadium in Katiadi upazila of Kishoreganj.
He said Bangladesh once had abundant native fish in its haors, baors, rivers, canals and wetlands. However, the availability of freshwater fish has declined over time due to the use of pesticides and chemical fertilisers, destruction of fish habitats and the shrinking of natural sanctuaries.
To address the situation, the government plans to create safe habitats for fish in haors and wetlands, including large pits and deep water-bodies where fish can breed and be conserved, he said.
“If fish eggs and fry can be protected, fish production will naturally increase,” the minister said, adding that sanctuary-based conservation of native freshwater fish would be strengthened.
Asked about concerns over microplastics in fish, Aminur Rashid said it was not only a problem for Bangladesh but a global concern. Microplastics have also been detected in seawater and marine fish, he said.
Bangladesh will take necessary measures in line with international research and decisions on the issue, he said, adding that the Environment Ministry’s relevant initiatives would also be important.
