Excessive pesticide use threatens fisheries in haor region: Adviser

MITHAMAIN, Kishoreganj, Aug 31 (BSS): Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter said fisheries resources in the haor region are now at stake due to excessive use of pesticides and herbicides in agriculture.

"Haors are very important for Bangladesh's agriculture and fisheries, as almost half of the country's total paddy production comes from these areas. However, the fisheries resources in the haors are now at stake due to excessive pesticide use in agriculture," the adviser said while addressing a view-exchange meeting with local fishermen and stakeholders as the chief guest on Sunday.

The meeting was held with registered fishermen from Itna, Mithamain, and Ashtagram upazilas of Kishoreganj district at the Mithamain Upazila Parishad Hallroom. The event was jointly organised by the district administration and the Department of Fisheries, Kishoreganj.

Farida Akhter informed the attendees that a national committee has been formed to curb pesticide use in agriculture with the aim of protecting fisheries and livestock in the haor region.

"Work is underway on how to reduce use of pesticides in agriculture and increase production while protecting fisheries and livestock," the adviser added.

She also noted that natural changes are occurring in the haor region due to several factors, including the construction of unplanned dams.

Referring to the use of illegal net, the adviser said some unscrupulous people are using illegal nets and electronic shocks to catch fish, which is gradually becoming worrying right now.

She further pointed out that visiting tourists often harm the local environment, as many are unaware of the hardships faced by the local residents.

"The lack of sufficient bridges and culverts in the Itna-Mithamoin-Ashtagram highway is hindering the flow of water. If more bridges and culverts are built, the movement of fish will be easier and everyone will get benefit subsequently," she mentioned.

Later, the adviser released 550-kg of fish fry in Itna Haor adjacent to Gabtoli Bridge.

Kishoreganj Additional Deputy Commissioner (ADC-General) Mizabe Rahmat, Director General of the Fisheries Department Dr Md Abdur Rouf, District Fisheries Officer Mohammad Shahidul Islam, and Mithamoin Upazila Nirbahi Officer Khan Md Abdullah Al-Mamun also spoke.