With the theme “Let us establish sanctuaries, fill the country with native fish”, National Fish Week 2025 was celebrated in Pirojpur with great enthusiasm. The program was jointly organized by the District Administration and the Department of Fisheries to promote fish farming, conserve native fish, and improve the livelihoods of fishermen.
On Monday (18 August) at 11:00 a.m., the program was inaugurated by releasing fish into the reserved Pond by Deputy Commissioner Mohammad Ashraful Alam Khan. Later, a colourful rally started from the Central Shaheed Minar premises, paraded through various city streets, and concluded at the District Shilpakala Academy.
The post-rally discussion meeting was presided over by District Fisheries Officer Sanjib Sannamat. The Deputy Commissioner was present as the chief guest, while Superintendent of Police Khan Mohammad Abu Naser, District BNP Convener Principal Alomgir Hossain, Deputy Director of Agricultural Extension Department Md. Rezaul Hasan, and UNO Mamunur Rashid attended as special guests.
Speakers emphasized that establishing sanctuaries and raising public awareness are crucial for conserving native fish. They called for strict enforcement of laws to stop the use of illegal nets, fishing during banned periods, and the use of poison or electricity. They also pointed out that the higher fish prices in the Barisal region are due to production shortages, stressing the need for coordinated initiatives.
It was further highlighted that Bangladesh earns foreign exchange by exporting about 8% of its annual shrimp production. Ensuring proper utilization of domestic aquatic resources would allow Bangladesh to advance further in fish production.
Other speakers at the event included District President of Jatiotabadi Matshyajibi Dal, Torikul Islam Najibul; Joint General Secretary Abdul Jabbar Bhutra; and Cluster Officer of Social Development Foundation Md. Shahin Mridha. Officials from various government and non-government offices, political leaders, representatives of fishermen, and general people participated in the program.
