CHAR FASSON, BHOLA, June 20: A permanent fish sanctuary in the Beteua Canal under Aslampur Union of Char Fasson Upazila is raising hopes for the conservation of indigenous fish species and the improvement of local fisheries.
The initiative, implemented by Family Development Association (FDA) with support from Palli Karma-Sahayak Foundation (PKSF), aims to protect aquatic biodiversity and enhance fish production through a technology-based management system.
Officials said the sanctuary has been established under the Special Programme for Development (Agriculture) project to ensure safe breeding, movement and growth of local fish species in open water bodies.
Fishing has been strictly prohibited in the designated area, while natural materials have been used to create a suitable habitat for fish spawning and growth.
A 24-hour CCTV monitoring system has also been installed to prevent illegal fishing and encroachment, significantly reducing unauthorised activities in the area, according to project officials.
Local fishermen said they are already noticing positive changes.
Shahjahan Mia, an elderly fisherman, said the sanctuary would help increase fish breeding and benefit future generations.
Another fisherman, Selim Mia, said the protected area had created a safe environment for fish, adding that increased production would improve fish availability in the canal.
FDA Fisheries Officer Md Saidur Rahman said open-water fish sanctuaries are an effective and scientific method for conserving biodiversity and ensuring natural reproduction.
“We are using modern technology to ensure security. CCTV monitoring has helped control illegal fishing and created a safe habitat for fish,” he said.
Senior Programme Coordinator of FDA Shankar Chandra Debnath said community participation was key to the initiative’s success.
“We have involved fishermen, farmers and local representatives in a participatory management model, which has increased local ownership of the sanctuary,” he said.
FDA Executive Director Md Kamal Uddin said technology-driven fish sanctuaries represent an innovative approach to sustainable aquatic resource management.
He said modern tools such as sensor-based monitoring and water-efficient practices were playing an important role in protecting endangered fish species, adding that similar initiatives are being expanded in coastal areas with PKSF support.
Char Fasson Upazila Senior Fisheries Officer Joyanta Kumar Opu said fish sanctuaries are a proven scientific method for boosting production.
He said the initiative would have a positive impact on fish breeding and conservation, adding that cooperation between government and non-government organisations is essential for long-term success.
