Halda project shifts focus to fisheries infrastructure, drops Bangabandhu mural plan

The government has cancelled plans to build a mural of Bangabandhu Sheikh Mujibur Rahman near Halda Setu on the Raozan-Rangamati road, at a cost of Tk7 crore.

Instead, the funds will be used to set up two fisheries offices on both sides of the river at Sartaghat and Madunaghat, as part of the Halda River project to protect the river's biodiversity. 

The decision marks a shift in priorities as part of the "Halda River Natural Fish Breeding Ground Development and Management Project (Phase-2)," which was launched by the Awami League government in 2023 with a total budget of Tk46.37 crore.

Speaking to The Business Standard, Mizanur Rahman, the project director, confirmed the decision to redirect the funds. 

"The mural of Bangabandhu has been omitted from the project. We are now considering setting up two offices of the Fisheries Department with the same budget. A final decision will be taken following discussions with stakeholders," he said. 

These offices, to be built at the northern and southern ends of Haldapar, are expected to enhance the management of the river's fish resources.

The Halda River, the only natural carp spawning ground in Bangladesh, plays a vital role in the country's ecological system and economy. 

Experts have long raised concerns over the deteriorating condition of the river, which has been plagued by pollution, poaching, and environmental degradation. In response, the government launched the Halda Rakkha Project, which has already made significant strides in improving the health of the river.

A key component of the project's second phase is the renovation of six hatcheries located along the banks of the Halda River in Raozan and Hathazari. These hatcheries will be rehabilitated to provide better conditions for fishermen and support the fish breeding process. 

Additionally, proposals to repair non-functional hatcheries and establish three new ones are being considered and will be reviewed with stakeholder input.

Project officials say the project will also provide training to egg collectors and fisheries officers, focusing on sustainable practices and law enforcement to protect the river's delicate ecosystem. 

Operations to prevent illegal activities such as poaching will be intensified, and a river-cleaning programme is set to begin to further safeguard the fish population.

In an effort to support local communities, the project aims to offer alternative employment opportunities to fishermen who rely on the river for their livelihoods. Workshops, seminars, and research initiatives will be conducted to engage stakeholders and ensure that the goals of the project are met. 

By June 2027, when the project is scheduled for completion, it is expected to have a lasting impact on both the environment and local communities.

As part of the project, 40 local fishermen will be recruited to monitor pollution and protect the Halda's fish population. Fisheries officers from Raozan and Hathazari have been tasked with submitting a list of 80 candidates, from which the final 40 will be selected.