Halda River Project

The Halda River, the sole natural breeding ground for freshwater carp in the subcontinent, has experienced declining fish egg production due to climate change and human activities. In response, the project was launched, funded by IFAD and executed by PKSF with IDF. The aim of the project is to increase fish production, conserve fish species threatened with extinction, and support local livelihoods by preserving and developing the Halda River’s natural breeding ground for carp fish species.

The Purposes are as follows:

Preserve biodiversity and the natural breeding habitat for major carp species in the Halda River.
Support local communities by enhancing fishery-related activities and providing alternative livelihoods to reduce dependence on harmful practices like tobacco farming.
Promote sustainable fish fry production practices.

Project Activities and Interventions

Support for Local Administration: IDF assists local authorities by providing speed and solar boats for surveillance operations to curb illegal fishing. These efforts led to the confiscation of illegal fishing nets and equipment, enhancing fish egg production in the river.
Expansion of Mud Scoop Hatching Plots: Financial assistance is given to local egg collectors for maintaining traditional mud scoops, helping sustain fish fry production through indigenous methods.
Alternative Livelihood for Tobacco Farmers: To reduce tobacco farming’s impact on the environment, alternative livelihoods, such as vegetable and fruit farming, were introduced to farmers along the river. These farmers received training, seeds, and saplings as incentives to transition from tobacco cultivation.
Animal Health Services: An Animal Health Center was established in 2023 to support farmers shifting to livestock as an alternative livelihood. The center provided veterinary services to 75 farmers, treating over 1,000 animals and vaccinating against diseases like rabies.
School Awareness Campaigns: Awareness programs were organized in schools to educate students about the Halda River’s ecological and economic significance, aiming to instill a sense of responsibility towards its preservation.
Research and Training Center: Established in 2021, the IDF Halda Research and Training Center focuses on producing pure fish fingerlings and aiding local egg collectors. It serves as a research hub equipped with hatcheries, tanks, and boats for monitoring river health and fish population.
Scholarship Programs: Scholarships were awarded to university students and researchers studying the Halda River, promoting academic research and engagement with conservation efforts.

Integrated Development Foundation (IDF) is a non-profit organization dedicated to combating poverty in the remote, hilly, and underserved regions of Bangladesh.

Halda River Project