Bangladesh to Develop Tanguar Haor as a New Sustainable Tourism Destination while Protecting its Biodiversity and Conservation of the Region

Published on September 7, 2025

The Bangladesh government is acting proactively to boost tourism while preserving the sustainability of the Tanguar Haor, one of the nation’s most valuable wetlands and hotspots of biodiversity. Farida Akhter, Fisheries and Livestock Adviser, declared development proposals for Tanguar Haor as a center for tourism that strikes a balance between economic growth and preservation of the waterbody’s high biodiversity and fish stocks. The government’s vision for haor is to link it with the tourism sector in a responsible way, conserving its natural resources while achieving tourism income.

Sustainable Practices and Biodiversity Protection for Tanguar Haor

To achieve this vision, Farida Akhter emphasized the importance of sustainable fishing practices and biodiversity conservation in the region. A major part of the plan includes taking effective steps to protect the fish populations in Tanguar Haor by addressing the issue of illegal fishing nets. The government has already begun crackdowns on the importation and use of these harmful nets, which pose a serious threat to the aquatic ecosystem. By enforcing stricter regulations, the government aims to reduce illegal fishing practices and improve fish production in the long term.

In addition, the creation of fish sanctuaries within Tanguar Haor is a central aspect of the government’s conservation strategy. These sanctuaries will protect native fish species and enhance the biodiversity of the region. The government has proposed a ban on certain fishing activities during specific periods to allow for fish breeding and population recovery.

Improving Fish Production through Inter-Ministerial Coordination

The government’s efforts to protect and promote sustainable tourism at Tanguar Haor are not limited to the fisheries sector. Farida Akhter highlighted the need for inter-ministerial coordination to effectively tackle the challenges faced by the haor. She emphasized the importance of collaboration between multiple ministries, including the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the Ministry of Land, Ministry of Agriculture, Water Resources, and the Ministry of Environment, Forests and Climate Change.

These coordinated efforts will enable the development of a comprehensive management plan that combines tourism development, fisheries protection, and sustainability. By working together, these ministries can ensure that Tanguar Haor becomes both an eco-tourism gem and a sustainable source of livelihoods for local communities, while minimizing the environmental impact of tourism and industrial activities.

Tourism and Economic Growth in Sunamganj

The development of Tanguar Haor as a tourism hub will have significant economic benefits for the surrounding communities in Sunamganj district. By attracting more domestic and international tourists, the region will see a rise in tourism-related income, benefiting local businesses, hotels, restaurants, and tourism operators. In addition to this, the emphasis on sustainable tourism will create new job opportunities for local residents, such as tour guides, fisheries workers, and eco-tourism developers.

As tourism grows, the local community will also be encouraged to preserve the natural biodiversity of Tanguar Haor and benefit from eco-tourism ventures that emphasize conservation and environmental education. The development of a responsible tourism model in Sunamganj will pave the way for similar initiatives in other wetland areas across Bangladesh, enhancing the country’s global reputation as a sustainable tourism destination.

The Road Ahead: Promoting Bangladesh as an Eco-Tourism Leader

The plans for Tanguar Haor represent a broader commitment to eco-tourism and sustainability within Bangladesh’s tourism sector. As the country seeks to position itself as a global leader in sustainable tourism, it must continue to implement eco-friendly policies that promote the preservation of its natural heritage while supporting economic growth. The focus on tourism and conservation at Tanguar Haor can serve as a blueprint for other regions looking to develop their tourism infrastructure while ensuring that their environmental resources are safeguarded for future generations.

As tourism in Bangladesh continues to grow, it is essential for the government and stakeholders to prioritize sustainable tourism development that benefits local communities, attracts international visitors, and protects the environment. With continued efforts to improve infrastructure, increase global awareness, and invest in sustainability practices, Bangladesh is poised to become a leading eco-tourism destination in South Asia.

Tanguar Haor as a Model for Sustainable Tourism in Bangladesh

The project of developing Tanguar Haor as a tourism hub reflects the increasing thrust towards sustainable tourism in Bangladesh. With a focus on environmentally friendly measures, community interaction, and conservation of biodiversity, the project at Tanguar Haor will create a model for other parts of the country to adopt. Backed by more than one ministry and local interests, the project is set to bring economic development, cultural heritage, and ecological sustainability to Sunamganj and the country as a whole.