Some 28.5 per cent of people in the country's Haor areas are unemployed, according to a study.
Excessive fishing and one-sided economic development are harming the eco-system in Haor areas and creating crises, said the study conducted by Human Development and Research Centre (HDRC) in support with Association for Land Reform and Development (ALRD).
The findings of the study titled Governance at Haor Areas in Bangladesh and Rights of Haor People were revealed at a seminar in the capital on Saturday.
It showed that corruption in Haor areas occurs during construction and renovation of crop protection embankments and payments of lease.
Dr Abul Barakat, economics professor at Dhaka University (DU), disclosed the findings at a function organised by ALRD.
ALRD Executive Director Shamsul Huda presided over the function. Bangladesh Environmental Lawyers Association (Bela) Chief Executive Advocate Syeda Rizwana Hasan, among others, was present on the occasion.
The study also showed that some 54 per cent of people in the areas depend on agriculture and nearly 13 per cent are involved with business.
The study said flash floods in 2017 wrecked havoc especially on crops, fishes and cattle fodder in Haor areas.
The residents of Haor areas suffered losses of around Tk 45.24 billion due to flash floods which caused damage to their crops, fishes and cow fodder, it added.
It also recommended that anyone who is responsible for corruption should be brought to book immediately, even for their petty corruption.
To eradicate corruption, the construction work of embankments must end within February 28 each year and red alert should be issued by April 15 every year, it said, adding that coordination among land, water and fisheries ministries are a must to this end.
Speaking at the event, Dr Barakat said macro and micro projects should be taken up to 'make strong infrastructure development in the areas'.
Rizwana Hasan said the leasing system should be cancelled to ensure the rights of the Haor people.
Pointing out lack of good governance in the areas, she also laid emphasis on proper education and treatment for the residents of Haor areas.
She said a law should be enacted for the Haor authorities.
Mr Shamsul Huda said it is high time to ensure good governance and set up different economic zones in haor areas.
He also put emphasis on collective efforts and movements to ensure the rights of Haor people.
[email protected]
