Fisheries Adviser Flags Risks of Sonar and Shock Technology in Commercial Trawling
Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has expressed serious concern over the use of sonar and electric shock technology in commercial fishing trawlers, warning that such practices pose grave threats to the environment and marine biodiversity.
She raised the issue while speaking as the chief guest at the inaugural session of the 10th Biennial Fisheries Conference, organized by the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Forum (BFRF), held on Tuesday, December 23, at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) auditorium.
Highlighting the dangers of harmful fishing gear, Farida Akhter said that traditional fishing equipment is increasingly being modified into environmentally destructive tools. “The use of electric shock to catch fish is completely unacceptable,” she said, noting that some modern technologies are being deployed in ways that accelerate ecological damage.
Referring to differences between artisanal and industrial fishing practices, she observed that certain technologies used in industrial trawlers are creating new concerns. “Just as it is unacceptable to go to sea seven times to catch fish once, it is equally problematic to use sonar (Sound Navigation and Ranging) technology to extract all fish in a single trip,” she said.
The adviser revealed that out of 223 industrial trawlers currently operating, nearly 70 are reportedly using sonar technology, significantly increasing the risk of overfishing. She emphasized the urgent need for effective and enforceable policies to address these challenges.
Farida Akhter also underscored the nutritional importance of fish, describing it as more than just a staple food. Fish, she said, is a vital source of micronutrients, calcium, and other essential elements crucial for eye health, bone strength, and cognitive development. She added that fish-based diets have played a significant role in the intellectual development of the Bengali population.
On marine resources, the adviser noted that Bangladesh has yet to fully harness its potential, with only about 30 percent currently being utilized. Even within this limited usage, she said, significant management issues persist. She pointed to disparities in government incentives, stating that fishers receive far less support compared to those in the agricultural sector. During fishing ban periods, inadequate assistance often forces fishers to violate regulations unintentionally.
She further informed that obstacles along hilsa migration routes have been identified, and coordination with the Bangladesh Inland Water Transport Authority (BIWTA) has been initiated to undertake necessary dredging operations.
The conference featured a keynote presentation by Dr. Faruk-ul Islam, Country Representative of WorldFish Bangladesh. FAO Representative in Bangladesh (ad interim) Dr. Diya Sano spoke as a guest of honor. Special guests included Director General of the Department of Fisheries Abdur Rouf, Director General of the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute Anuradha Bhadra, and ACI PLC Group Adviser Dr. F. H. Ansari.
The session was chaired by BFRF President Dr. Zowarder Faruk Ahmed. Secretary General Monirul Islam delivered the welcome address, while Vice President Khaled Kanak offered the vote of thanks.
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