Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has underscored the critical need to protect and modernize Kaptai Lake, describing it as a “national asset” vital to the livelihood of thousands of family’s dependents on fishing and trade in the region.

Speaking at the inauguration of a fish fry release and VGF (Vulnerable Group Feeding) rice distribution program at the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) Fish Landing Centre in Rangamati, Farida highlighted the lake’s economic potential and ecological significance.

“Kaptai Lake sustains thousands of fisher families, traders, and their communities. It is imperative that we develop this area not only to increase fish production but to ensure inclusive socio-economic growth,” she said.

Farida emphasized that modernizing infrastructure—such as establishing new, well-equipped fish landing spots—would significantly boost fish productivity, help meet growing domestic demands, and create opportunities for fish exports.

The region, however, faces numerous challenges, including outdated facilities, lack of cold storage systems, inefficient distribution channels, and limited access to modern fishing tools. These shortcomings not only affect fish preservation and market access but also compromise the income security of local fishers.

Improved infrastructure would also enable better monitoring and management of fish resources, ensuring the sustainable use of the lake while enhancing the livelihoods of those who depend on it.

The adviser acknowledged reports of extortion impacting local fishers and traders and assured that the government would take strong steps to curb these illegal practices. “No fisher or trader should be forced to pay unlawful levies while trying to earn an honest living,” she asserted.

Farida also raised concerns about the declining biodiversity in Kaptai Lake. “There used to be 86 species of fish here; now only 66 remain. This is alarming and calls for immediate conservation and responsible fishing practices,” she said.

She urged all stakeholders—including fishers, traders, local authorities, and community leaders—to work together to combat pollution and protect the lake's ecosystem.

BFDC Additional Secretary Suraiya Akhter presided over the event, which was attended by Fisheries and Livestock Secretary Md. Tofazzal Hossain, Chittagong Hill Tracts Development Board Chairman Major General (Retd) Anup Kumar Chakma, Rangamati Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Habib Ullah, and Superintendent of Police Dr. S.M. Farhad Hossain, among others.

Trader Mahfuz Uddin spoke on behalf of the fishing community, welcoming initiatives aimed at improving their working conditions and security.

As part of the program, Farida and other dignitaries released carp fingerlings into the lake, marking the beginning of the seasonal restocking drive. In a major relief measure, 26,651 unemployed fisher families received food assistance under the VGF scheme.

Modernization of Kaptai Lake is not only a matter of improving fish production—it is essential for addressing long-standing challenges such as poverty, unemployment, and food insecurity in the hill tracts. With better access to modern technology, training, and markets, local fishers can transition from subsistence to commercial-scale operations, creating a ripple effect in the region's economy.

As Bangladesh looks to diversify its export base and strengthen rural livelihoods, revitalizing natural assets like Kaptai Lake will be key to achieving these goals.

Bob post