Water management key for coastal agriculture, livelihoods: speakers tell at discussion

Poor performance of related groups has led to ineffective water management and low agricultural productivity in coastal polders, experts said at a discussion.

The coastal regions, home to millions, face severe challenges due to climate change, making sustainable water management essential for improving agriculture and livelihoods, they said.

The discussion was held at a National Policy Dialogue titled "Water Management Challenges in Coastal Polders of Bangladesh: Rethinking Institutions and Policies" at the Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC) Conference Room in the capital on Tuesday.

Dr Nazmun Nahar Karim, executive chairman of BARC, who attended the event as the chief guest, said, "We can assess the current situation of polders, availability of resources, structure, and the current needs. Based on the assessment, the Department of Agricultural Extension or the Department of Fisheries can take the lead in specific polders for sustainable agriculture."

Dr Humnath Bhandari, International Rice Research Institute's(IRRI) representative, said "Agriculture in coastal areas is critical and requires effective water management to enhance productivity and resilience. It is essential to empower and strengthen community-level water management groups.

"Additionally, coordinated management among government agencies must be ensured to improve water management and promote sustainable agriculture," he said.

Md Zohirul Islam, additional director General of Bangladesh Water Development Board, said, "Participatory Water Management can be made more inclusive by coordinating with other government agencies."

In his keynote, Dr Ahmad Salahuddin, scientist at IRRI, called for institutional reforms.

"Water management organisations formed by farmers should be at the centre of these efforts, with engagement from local government agencies," he said.