International Journal of Management (IJM)

Volume 10, Issue 2, March-April 2019, pp. 17-38, Article ID: IJM_10_02_003
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ISSN Print: 0976-6502 and ISSN Online: 0976-6510
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ROLE OF STAKEHOLDERS IN PRESERVING

BIODIVERSITY IN BANGLADESH: A STUDY
ON TANGUAR HAOR
Dr. Esmat Ara
Associate Professor, Department of Public Administration
Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh

Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

MSS Final year Student, Department of Public Administration
Shahjalal University of Science & Technology, Sylhet, Bangladesh

ABSTRACT
Tanguar Haor, the most diversified ecosystem of Bangladesh is important for
surviving around 70,000 people. Tanguar Haor has been declared ecologically critical
area for 20 years. This study aims to examine the role of relevant stakeholders in
conserving the countries’ second RAMSAR site. This paper also attempted to
understand the causes of loss of biodiversity of Tanguar Haor as well as its solution.
Mixed methods (qualitative and quantitative) research has employed for this study
applying purposive sampling strategy. Study findings reveal that indiscriminate
harvesting of mother fishes, use of agrochemicals, deforestation, hunting migratory
birds, increasing trace metal, mixing silt soil with water are the major contributor to
loss of biodiversity in Tanguar Haor. With the support of the Swedish Development
Corporation (SDC) and International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), the
government of Bangladesh has conducted a big budgeted project to preserve
biodiversity of Tanguar Haor, however there found lack of coordination among
peoples’ representatives, government agencies, and IUCN. Hence, the study findings
will hopefully contribute to identify the irregularities in performing the role of different
stakeholders that will lead taking further initiatives to preserve biodiversity of Tanguar
Haor in Bangladesh.
Keywords: Stakeholders, Role, Preserving, Biodiversity, Tanguar Haor, Bangladesh.
Cite this Article: Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam, Role of Stakeholders in
Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor, International
Journal of Management, 10 (2), 2019, pp. 17-38.
http://www.iaeme.com/IJM/issues.asp?JType=IJM&VType=10&IType=2

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

1. INTRODUCTION
Wetlands are the most productive ecosystems in the earth. Wetlands provide extensive food
webs and rich biodiversity which is essential for balanced environment and sustainable
development. Natural wetland also provide many services toward mankind through various
functions, products, fish, fuelwood, timber, rice, aesthetic beauty, cultural heritage and
archaeology. Geographically Bangladesh is known as the land of wetlands and more than two-
thirds of the country may be classified as wetlands. Wetlands ecosystems are rich in biodiversity
and great importance to Bangladesh because of their critical economic and ecological role in
sustaining life and livelihoods of communities living in close propinquity to the area (Uddin,
Miah, Afrad, Mehraj, & Mandal, 2015). Bangladesh’s most important freshwater wetlands
occur in the Hoar Basin apart from the Ganges, Brahmaputra delta, which is low lying plains
in eastern Mymensingh and western Sylhet Divisions, in the north-eastern part of the country
(Rahman, Sharker, Sumi, Alam, & Hossen, 2014). Tanguar Haor is located in two Upazillas
(sub-districts) namely Tahirpur and Dharmapasha of Sunamganj district in Sylhet Division. The
Tanguar Haor basin, which is an area of 10,000 hectares of land, also supports about 60,000
populations with its resources (Alam, Chowdhury & Sobhan, 2012). TanguarHaor is the home
of 140 species of sweet water fishes and thousands of indigenous birds. It is also an excellent
wintering site for large numbers of migratory birds. This Haor also is a harbour of non-fish
organisms like snails, mussels and different types of aquatic vegetation. There is a great
importance of TanguarHaor in fish Production, maintaining biodiversity, meeting local demand
and regional demand and also serve as the good source of fish seed supply for other water
bodies (Chowdhury, 2008). The Government has declared TanguarHaor as an Ecologically
Critical Area (ECA) in 1999 considering its critical condition due to overexploitation of natural
resource. In 2000, the Hoar basin was also declared as the country's second Ramsar site wetland
of international importance (SDC). Tanguar Haor is considered as a refuge for threatened fish
and is also home to some of a bigger species (IUCN, 2008). With the declaration of Tanguar
Haor as a RAMSAR site, government has its commitment to preserve the ecosystem and floral
and faunal diversity including its migratory birds from illegal hunters. Government developed
a comprehensive management plan-the Tanguar Haor Management Plan (THMP). Later, the
government in collusion with NGO took a number of initiatives to protect the bio diversity of
Tanguar Haor. At present, over catching of fisheries, hunting migratory birds, cutting trees are
common scenario.

2. STATEMENT OF THE PROBLEM

Bangladesh is biologically very diverse country. Its geographical location, deltaic structure, and
sub-tropical climate have made it a home of about 4,200 plant species (from angiosperms to
mosses) in its evergreen, semi-evergreen and deciduous forests on the hills and plain lands; in
mangroves; and in numerous rivers and wetlands.
Tanguar Haor is one of the most important wetlands not only of Bangladesh but also of
South Asia (Bird Life International, 2012). It is a unique wetland ecosystem in Bangladesh and
has now gained international focus. The Government of Bangladesh declared Tanguar Haor as
an Ecologically Critical Area in 1999 considering its critical condition as a result of
overexploitation of its natural resources and declared as a Ramsar site in 2000 (GoB, 2004).
The rich biodiversity, notable occurrence of wildlife especially waterfowl is one of the most
significant features that allowed this area to gain the designation as a Ramsar site. Tanguar Haor
is also extremely rich in terms of fisheries resources that play a critical role in Bangladesh's
economy. However, almost every water bodies and wetlands of Bangladesh is under threat.
Huge population pressure, climate change impact, development interactions, disappearing ,
pollution, over harvesting of the natural resources, land use conflict, lack of upstream water

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 Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

flow in winter, and increase risk of flood are the major threats to wetland (Chakraborty, 2009).
During early 1990s, environmentalists raised a demand to conserve eight endangered sites of
the country including TanguarHaor, following which the government undertook a 10-year
project with the cooperation of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) with an
allocation of USD $ 7,467,570 in first phase. District Administration abrogated the lease system
and handed over authority to protect the Haor to the IUCN in 2006. The IUCN itself puts it
somewhat differently with support from the Swiss Agency for Development and Cooperation
(SADC). IUCN managed Tanguar Haor together with the Government of Bangladesh and local
communities. However, the protection and management status of wetlands in Bangladesh is
more complex and severe due to financial, technical, social, and political decision, as well as
lack of integration of those sectors (Islam, S 2010). Furthermore, many alleged that since the
IUCN took over, cutting down trees illegally has increased due to lack of supervision. Catching
rare fish species illegally increased that time, that biodiversity of Tanguar Haor is in danger at
present time. After completion of IUCN project, no research conducted to understand real
scenario of maintenance of Tanguar Haor. It is necessary to conduct a research to examine the
role stakeholders in preserving biodiversity of Tanguar Haor.

3. PURPOSE AND SIGNIFICANCE OF THE STUDY

The main purpose of this study is to find out the role of multi-stakeholders in preserving
biodiversity of TanguarHaor, a world heritage. The study also tried to identify the challenges
of preserving biodiversity along with some measures to promote biodiversity of Tanguar Haor
in Bangladesh. TanguarHaor is known as sanctuary of biodiversity. It contains thousands of
species of sweet water fisheries, birds, insects, trees etc. ‘Tanguar Haor provides habitat for at
least 135 fish and 208 bird species, including 92 water bird species and 98 migratory bird
species, and including 10 IUCN Red Book and 22 CITES listed species. About 30-40,000
migratory waterfowl converge on the area in the northern winter months, according to the site's
Ramsar listing. Where varieties of plants like Hijol, Karach, Nalkhagra, Chaliabaan, and many
others sprouted abundantly, turning it into a famed sanctuary for the migratory birds, today a
group is behind massive deforestation in TanguarHaor flouting regulations.
Their destructive activities are not only hampering the aesthetic beauty of the Haor - they are
directly playing havoc with its priceless biodiversity (The Daily Star, August 08, 2017).
TanguarHaor declared second RAMSAR site of Bangladesh, is particularly threatened by over
exploitation of fishery stocks, deforestation and large scale waterfowl harvesting. The area has
so far been ruled by wealthy and politically well-connected people for a long period, and the
local fishermen have been excluded from this resource which has led to significant
impoverishment.
Besides these, TanguarHaor is losing its biodiversity for many other reasons. Generally
tourism opens the door of economic activity that brings prosperity and affluence among the
stakeholders. But in the case of TanguarHaor, tourism affects the ecosystem of wetland planet.
Recently a number of tourists travel to TanguarHaor and enjoy the beauty of the nature.
Travellers have been passing night in Haor and throw the packet of chips and other foods on
the Haor that seriously hamper the ecosystem of fisheries and planet. They torch towards the
eye of migratory birds that contribute to loss of biodiversity. Considering the issues it is urgently
needed to study about the causes of loss of biodiversity and role government and other
stakeholders in preserving biodiversity in the country's second Ramsar site. A comprehensive
analytical analysis of the various issues leading to wetlands degradation is made in this study
that will help to provide a direction for Bangladesh government adopting adequate
interdisciplinary policy guideline and political wills to implement them for sustainable
management and protection of wetlands, and ecologically sensitive sites.

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

3. LITERATURE REVIEW
Indiscriminate harvest of mother fishes was identified as a major cause of fish declination.
Besides this, corruption, illegal fishing, use of agrochemicals and habitat destruction were also
found as reasons for the reduction of fish species in the study area. Fisheries resource
declination results loss of biodiversity in TanguarHaor (Mamun et al., 2012). Wetland
ecosystems are of great importance to Bangladesh because of their extent and of the critical
economic and ecological role that they play in sustaining life and livelihoods in the country
(Islam, 2010). Wetlands provide short and long-term benefits and services to the people of
Bangladesh including crop and fish production, swamp forest and reed land maintenance, and
regulation of water flow (Chowdhury, 2009). There is considerable change due to flash flood
in Haor basin, which destroys thousand hector of rice crop with agricultural land. Due to the
flash flood, food crisis arises around the Haor basin livelihood (Khan, Mia, & Hossain, 2012).
When this sort of crisis situation arises then the local people harvest the fisheries and cutting
swamp forest for their sustentation which are the main elements of biodiversity in TanguarHaor
(Hossain et al, 2017).
Biodiversity monitoring technique namely ‘Community based Biodiversity Monitoring’
that will be used by the groups consisting of experts, project staff and local volunteers such as
committee members, school teachers or students from colleges and schools. Enthusiastic people
from local community having interest in biodiversity conservation will be selected as 'local
volunteers’ (Singh, P. P. (2008). Central Committee with help of management authority will
select the local volunteers. A biodiversity monitoring team would be formed with above
mentioned people. Four monitoring teams would be formed and they would work in four
unions. The Swamp forests that once used to be common in TanguarHaor have now become
very rare due to clearing, cutting and other anthropological activities, and the last vestiges of it
remains in area called Ronchi. Sweet water fishes are in great trouble because of catching fish
illegally (Alam et al., 2012). People of Tanguar Haor are mostly dependent on fisheries
resources to a great extent. Fishing is the most important economic activity of the TanguarHaor
dependent people (Rahaman, Sajib, & Alam, 2016). More than 70% of households involved in
fisheries activities either for income or for food. They also mentioned that the local people
perceive the gradual degradation of the resources, especially over-harvesting of fishery
resources by the hired fisher folks (Mondal et al., 2010).
There is a great importance of coordination between various governmental agencies and
Non-Government Organizations to protect wetlands and ecosystems. Due to lack of
coordination between governmental agencies and NGOs many project and policies did not see
the light of success (Azhar, 2014). Bangladesh has been achieving community-based
sustainable use of wetland resources. They emphasize on implementing government initiatives
properly and make the wetland free from politics. Bangladesh conducted a number of highly
budgeted projects to keep the biodiversity of wetland balance (Khan et al 2000). A study was
conducted on Poverty, equity and rights in conservation. This case study focused on ensuring
sustainable development and livelihoods of rural people in South Asia where Tanguar Haor was
one of the study sites. In Tanguar Haor, resource rights could be a potential aspect to ensure
sustainable livelihoods, environmental security and to mitigate conflict in the Haor areas
(Oviedo et al., 2005).
Tanguar Haor is one of the remote places of Bangladesh. Consequently, living in Tanguar
is also very energetic. Materials for making houses in Tanguar, generally come from the Haor
itself. The swamp forest supplied the structure of their houses, so over the time, these sources
became scarce as the natural resources are destroying day by day (Haque, & Basak, 2017). The
people, living in TanguarHaor are highly dependent on the Haor ecosystem for their income.
Most of their income is either directly or indirectly derived from the Haor. Farming, fishing,

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 Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

fish trading, and boating activities are the major occupation of Haor people (Haque and Haque,
2008). Community Based Sustainable Management of Tanguar Haor Project has made some
notable efforts in habitat restoration and biodiversity conservation. Four fish reservations have
been established in the core area. Besides, five Beels were protected by piling with bamboo and
planting native tree to protect the fish habitat against poaching. Forestation initiatives also have
taken to preserve biodiversity of Tanguar Haor (Azhar, 2014).
A good number of research works have been conducted on different arena of Tanguar Haor,
like causes of fisheries resource declination, wetland biodiversity conservation, harvest of
fisheries in Tanguar Haor, and present status of biodiversity in Taguar Haor, but there is very
few research conducted regarding role of government and other stakeholders in preserving
biodiversity of Tanguar Haor.

4. CONCEPTUAL FRAMEWORK

Figure 1: Conceptual framework

The conceptual framework presents the relationship between the dependent and independent
variables. In this part of research, different variables are identified. There are two types of
variables: Independent variable and Dependent variable.

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

Independent variable means such variables that influence other variable. In this research
possible independent variables are the role of multi-stakeholders in preserving biodiversity of
Tanguar Haor. Dependent variable is that which resulted from the function of the independent
variables. Their interrelationship and interdependency can be shown through the following
chart.
Through this diagram, there is shown a cause-effect relationship between the dependent and
independent variables. If the concerned stakeholders play appropriate role then the biodiversity
of TanguarHaor will be preserved. Responsible role of district administration, Upazilla
administration, local government representatives, Non-Government Organization (NGO) and
local people can help to protect and conserve the biodiversity of TanguarHaor. So, role of
district administration, Upazilla administration, local government representatives, Non-
Government Organization (NGO) and local people are the independent variables of the study.

5. RESEARCH METHODOLOGY AND METHODS

Both exploratory and explanatory research approaches have been employed in this study.
Because exploratory research typically occurs when a researcher examines a new interest or
when the subject of study itself is relatively new’ (Babbie, 2004). Advantages of exploratory
research are flexibility and adaptability to change. This implies that this form of qualitative
research has an iterative nature in which preliminary data analysis coincides with data collection
often results in altering questions as the researcher learns more about the subject (DiCicco-
Bloom & Crabtree, 2006). On the other hand explanatory research is conducted to investigate
or find out some problems that are not studied in detail. Descriptive research answers questions
of what, where, when and how; explanatory questions, of why (Babbie, 2004). It is also
necessary because only qualitative research or quantitative research is not sufficient to fully
understand and the problem and strengths of one method can be used to overcome the
weaknesses of another method (Creswell, 2003).
Mixed methods (both qualitative and quantitative) have been employed in this study. In this
study, respondents have been selected purposively and accidentally. Qualitative research
approach has been used in this study because qualitative research is the systematic inquiry into
social phenomena in natural settings. These phenomena can include, but are not limited to, how
people experience aspects of their lives, how individuals and/or groups behave, how
organizations function, and how interactions shape relationships (Bogdan & Biklen, 2006). And
quantitative research approach provides opportunities to have a statistical analysis and justify
the hypothesis properly. The researcher has taken the opportunity of cross-checking the data
collected from the field. A purposive sample is a non-probability sample that is selected based
on characteristics of a population and the objective of the study. Purposive sampling is also
known as judgmental, selective, or subjective sampling. Accidental sampling is, as the name
implies, a sample you chance upon by accident. The sample is convenient or available to you
for some reason. In this study, 3 officials from district administration, 1 official from Upazilla
administration, 8 local government representatives, 4 officials from International NGOs and 14
local peoples have been selected as sample.
TanguarHaor has been selected as study area. TanguarHaor is located in Sunamgonj district
(Tahirpur and Dharmapasha Upazilla) covering an area of 9,727 hectares. Geographical
position of is at 25° 06‟ to 25°11‟ N and 91°01‟ to 91°06‟ E. This site is influenced by Dhanu,
Baulai, Surma and Jadukata Rivers.
Meghalaya hills are in the North from where number of streams flows to the Haor. Other
important Haor like Matian, Shanir, and Thapner are very nearby and have some dependency
with some degree of variation (Islam 2008).

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 Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

Figure 2: Tanguar Haor

The information has been collected through face to face interview with semi-structured
interview schedule. Both open ended and closed ended questions have been selected for data
collection. Secondary data have been collected from journals, articles, report of different
organizations, newspapers, e-books which are related to the study. The quantitative data have
been analysed using Statistical Package for the social science (SPSS). Thematic analysis
method has been used in qualitative research and focuses on examining themes within data.
This method emphasizes organize and rich description of data set. Thematic analysis is a
systematic approach to the analysis of qualitative data that involves identifying themes or
patterns (Lapadat, 2010). [[[

5.1. Data Presentation and Analysis

The study has been conducted on the basis of qualitative and quantitative analysis. For the
illustration of quantitative data, the study would like to present the data on invariant
demographic data presentation method by using Statistical Programme for Social Science
(SPSS) software to get reliable combination of data. On the other hand, for the analysis of
qualitative data, thematic analysis has been used to analyse the data. Thematic analysis has been
used because it is now a very simple way to analyse the data by identifying the themes from the
data.

5.2. Demographic Information of the Respondents

In my study, most of respondents are between 26-35 years old. Minimum age limit is from 15
years to 25 years. Maximum age level of respondents is 55 years or more. This study tried to
cover the perception of peoples at different level of age and experiences. Aged people shared
lot of experiences regarding Tanguar Haor while young respondents shared recent activities of
government and other stakeholders on Tanguar Haor. This study covered both male and female
respondents to collect data. Most of the respondents were male (80 percent) while only 20
percent respondents were female. Reason behind not covering more female respondents is that

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

females are not directly involved in destroying biodiversity of Tanguar Haor but they are
involved in protecting biodiversity.
The sampling percentage of the total 30 respondents represent that 13.33% respondents
are taken from bureaucrats, 13.33% respondents are taken from international NGOs while
26.67% respondents from local government representatives and rest 46.67% respondents are
taken from local peoples.

6. DATA PRESENTATION AND ANALYSIS (QUANTITATIVE)

Chart 1 Whether Biodiversity of Tanguar Haor is on Threat

Biodiversity of Tanguar Haor is on Threat

13.33

Yes
No
86.67

Figure 1
(Source: Field data)
This pie diagram shows that about 86.67 percent respondents believe that biodiversity of
TanguarHaor is on threat. Only 13.33 percent respondents do not believe on above statement.
So, by this diagram it can be said that necessary measure should be taken as most of the
stakeholders believe that biodiversity of TanguarHaor is on threat.
Chart 2 Root Cause of Loss of Biodiversity in TanguarHaor

Root Cause of Loss of Biodiversity in Tanguar Haor

Hunting Migrated Bird 20.00%

Increasing Trace metal 3.33%

Mismanagement of Tourism 10%

Illegal Fishing
36.67%
Cutting Swamp Forest
30%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%

Figure 2
Source: Field Data

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 Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

A number of factors have been contributed in loss of biodiversity of TanguarHaor. Cutting

swamp forest, illegal fishing, mismanagement of tourism, increasing trace metal, hunting
migratory bird, mixing silt soil with wetland water etc. have been contributed in loss of
biodiversity. Above bar chart shows that 36.67 percent respondents believe that illegal fishing
is the root cause of loss of biodiversity while 30 percent respondents believe that cutting swamp
forest is the root cause of loss of biodiversity in TanguarHaor. About 20 percent believe hunting
migratory bird, 10 percent believe mismanagement of tourism and rest 3.33 percent believe
increasing trace metal are the root cause of loss biodiversity of Tanguar Haor.
Chart 3 Root Cause of Destroying Swamp Forest and Illegal Fishing

Root Cause of Destroying Swamp Forest and Illegal Fishing

100%
80%
60% 40% 16.67 30% 10% 3.33%
40%
20%
0% Series 1

Figure 3
Source: Field Data
A number of factors are responsible for destroying swamp forest and illegal fishing in
TanguarHaor. According to above line diagram, 40 percent respondent believe that poverty is
considered as the root cause of destroying swamp forest and illegal fishing while 30 percent
respondent believe that swamp forest is destroying due to lack of proper monitoring. 10 percent
respondent believe that lack of proper maintenance and rest 3.33 percent believe that lack of
legal action people have been destroying swamp forest and involving illegal fishing.
Chart 4: Environment Friendly Employment

Opportunity of Environment Friendly

Employment
0%

No
Yes
100%

Figure 4

Source: Field Data

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

Most of the people in TanguarHaor area are highly dependent on nature. Some of them are
fisherman, some are involved in cultivation and few people are boatmen. When natural disaster
attack on Haor area, the peoples are compelled to involve forbidden activities like illegal
fishing, hunting migratory birds, deforestation etc. only for subsistence. The above pie chart
shows that hundred percent (100%) people agreed the statement that there is no opportunity to
involve environment friendly occupation.
Chart 5: Over Crowd of Tourists and Mismanagement Hampers Biodiversity

Number of respondents

Strongly agreed
25%
Agree
50% Neutral
15%
2% Disagree
3%5%
Strongly Disagree
Total

Figure 5

(Source: Field data)

Tourism opens the door of earning more revenue from TanguarHaor. The tourists have
shown great interest in TanguarHaor to enjoy the natural beauty. But recently over crowd of
tourists and mismanagement hamper the biodiversity and ecosystem of aquatic animals of
TanguarHaor. 50.00 percent of the respondents agreed with the statement that over crowd of
tourists and mismanagement hampers the biodiversity of TanguarHaor. 30.00 percent of the
respondents agreed while 10 percent disagreed and 6.67 percent strongly disagreed with the
statement.
Chart 6: Conservation of TanguarHaor and Spreading Haor Based Tourism

Possibility of Conservation of Tanguar Haor and Spreading

Haor Based Tourism Simultaneously

20%
Yes
No
80%

Figure 6
Source: Field Data

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 Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

Often tourism hampers natural ecosystem of aquatic animals and it can cause of loss of
biodiversity in TanguarHaor. Above pie diagram shows, 80 percent respondent believe that
conservation of TanguarHaor and spreading Haor based tourism industry simultaneously is
possible while rest 20 percent respondent do not believe with above statement.
Chart 7: Disciplinary Action Taken by Administration

Whether Disciplinary Action Taken By Administration

33.33%

Yes
66.67%
No

Figure 7
Source: Field Data
Above pie diagram shows, about 66.67 percent respondent agreed that administrative
authorities take disciplinary action when any offence conducted by any offenders like illegal
fishing, hunting migratory birds etc. Rest 33.33 percent believed that administrative authorities
do not take disciplinary action against any offenders.
Figure 8: Influence of People’s Representatives

People's Representatives Create Pressure Upon

Administrative Action

36.67% Yes

63.33% No

Figure 8
Source: Field Data
This pie diagram shows that 63.33 percent respondent believe that peoples’ representatives
create pressure upon administrative authorities when disciplinary action is taken against any
offender. But rest 36.67 percent respondents believe that administrative authorities can take
action freely and without interference of other
Figure 9: Decreasing the Rate of Hunting Migratory Birds

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

Perception Towards Decreasing the Rate of Hunting

Migratory Birds

40%
Yes
60%
No

Figure 9
Source: Field Data
Above pie diagram shows, 60% respondents believe that the rate of hunting migratory birds
in not decreasing though many initiatives have been taken by the government, NGOs and other
stakeholders. Rest 40% respondents believe that the rate of hunting biodiversity is decreasing
day by day.

7. QUALITATIVE DATA ANALYSIS

Thematic analysis is used in qualitative research and focused on examining themes within data.
Thematic analysis is performed through the process of coding in six phases- Formalizing with
data, generating initial code, searching for themes among code, reviewing themes, defining and
naming themes, and producing final report. Thematic analysis is the process of identifying
patterns or themes within qualitative data. ‘It provides core skills that will be useful for
conducting many other kinds of analysis’ (p.78). A further advantage, particularly from the
perspective of learning and teaching, is that it is a method rather than a methodology (Braun &
Clarke 2006; Clarke & Braun, 2013).
The study topic “Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A study
on Tanguar Haor” entails the findings that can be coded by the following themes:

7.1. Causes of Loss of Biodiversity

Bangladesh government has declared TanguarHaor as ecologically critical area and UNESCO
declared it as world ramsar side. TanguarHaor is second samsara side of Bangladesh. The Haor
is ecologically very diverse in Bangladesh. It contains 219 species birds, 98 species migratory
birds, 121 species local birds, 19 species mammal, 141 species of fishes, 20 rare species of
fishes (IUCN, 2013). Due to mismanagement and unawareness, biodiversity of TanguarHaor is
on threat. The respondents explained the causes of loss of biodiversity of Tanguar Hoar from
different angle.

7.2. Illegal hunting, fishing, and cutting swamp forest

At the time of interview, a government official working at office of the Deputy Commissioner,
Sunamganj, stated:
“There are a number of reasons behind loss of biodiversity of TanguarHaor. It is true that
illegal fishing, hunting migratory and local birds, cutting swamp forest is the general reasons
of loss of biodiversity of TanguarHaor. But over crowd of tourists in Haor and their unconscious
activities hamper the ecosystem of fishes, birds and other aquatic animals. Tourists spend the

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 Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

night in Tangua and torch towards migratory birds that seriously hamper the ecosystem of
aquatic animals and migratory birds”.
Alike an official of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) claimed:
“Fishing is the main profession of most the people living in TanguarHaor area. About 41.7
percent people subsist on the basis on fishing. They do not know the importance of the Haor
and its biodiversity. Without fishing they do not have any option to earn money to maintain
their family. As a result, despite restrictions from the government, the fisherman involved
illegal fishing. Besides, deforestation or illegal cutting of swamp forest may be considered
another reason of loss of biodiversity of TanguarHaor”.
TanguarHaor is located under neighbouring country Meghalaya hill. An amount of silt soil
has been mixed with rain water and waterfall from Meghalaya hill.
It seriously hampers the ecosystem of aquatic animals. The statements of the government
bureaucrats and officials of the International Union for Conservation of Nature are roughly
similar. According to them, illegal fishing, hunting migratory bird, cutting swamp forest,
unconsciousness and unawareness are the main factors that contributed to loss of biodiversity.
But the local government representative of Tahirpur Upazilla provide exceptional information
that silt soil mixing with Haor water from Meghalaya hill contributed loss of aquatic animals’
biodiversity. Many reasons identified behind destroying or cutting swamp forest like poverty,
unawareness, lack of proper monitoring, lack of maintenance, increasing trace metal etc. These
reasons play vital role in destroying swamp forest of TanguarHaor. An official of International
Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) claimed:
“For the purpose of fish habitat restoration in the ‘Beels’ of TanguarHaor, the local peoples
involve in cutting Heejol trees. Only for this purpose, thousands of Heejol tree have been cut
in every year. Besides unawareness, lack of proper monitoring and increasing trace metal in
Haor can be considered reasons behind destroying swamp forest”.
A village farmer stated:
“We are highly dependent on nature. Sometimes trees are considered as barriers for
cultivation of land. In that situation, farmers cut trees and make the land flat to cultivate corps”.
A fisherman of TanguarHaor said:
“When crops are corrupted due to draws, flash flood and natural disaster, the people do not
have any other option to survive. As a result, poor people involve cutting forest illegally.
Indeed, poverty is the root cause of cutting swamp forest”.
According to the statements of the most of respondents, poverty is the root cause of cutting
swamp forest. By the policy of deforestation people try to convert forest into agricultural field
for cultivation of crops. Besides, unawareness, lack of proper monitoring, lack of maintenance
and increasing trace metal are marked as reasons behind destroying swamp forest.

8. CORRUPTION
Middle level officials of IUCN, Police, and ANSAR are accused of involving corruption. Local
people and local government representatives claimed that ANSAR and police members take
bribe from the fishermen and the forest cutters. As a result, fishermen involve in illegal fishing
and wood cutter involve in deforestation. An official of International Union for Conservation
of Nature (IUCN), stated:
“The ANSAR members, who are responsible for the TanguarHaor, accused of involving
corruption and taking bribe for providing illegal opportunities to the corrupted people. They
take bribe from people to have swamp forest cut and to have fish caught illegally at night.”
A local level peoples ‘representative noted:

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

“The people involved in illegal activities like hunting migratory birds, catching fish, cutting
swamp forest etc. They give bribe to the boatmen of executive magistrate to inform about the
location of magistrate. Middle level officials of IUCN are the most corrupted persons. They put
the money into their pocket instead of expending it on local people or cooperative society. In
fine it is a looting project”.
It is true they are accused of involving corruption but there is no proof to punish them. If
anybody can show any evidence, punishing actions must be taken immediately. From above
statements, it appears that combating corruption should be first priority to conserve biodiversity
of TanguarHaor. Corrupted people do not care about conservation of nature rather conservation
of money. Middle level officials of IUCN and ANSAR members involved mid-level corruption
and provide facilities to the offenders to destroy natural resources.

9. COLLABORATIVE ACTIONS TOWARDS PROTECTING

BIODIVERSITY
9.1. Initiatives towards protecting migratory birds
In every winter season thousands of migratory birds come to TanguarHaor from Cyberia and
so other country. They stay in TanguarHaor in entire winter season and depend on the fisheries
and other aquatic animals for the purpose of foods that live in the surface of the Haor. As
migratory birds depend on fisheries and other aquatic animals, the aquatic animals are also
benefited by the migratory birds’ defecation and leftovers. Hunting migratory birds is great
threat for biodiversity of TanguarHaor. Respondents are divided on the question of taken
initiatives protecting hunting migratory birds.
A local government officer noted:
“To protect migratory birds and to prevent hunting bird district administration has taken
initiatives. An executive magistrate is continuously on duty to protect birds and prevent illegal
hunting. Besides executive magistrates, 14 ANSAR members are patrolling by boat to protect
birds and to bring convicted persons under punishment. Very recently 6 offenders were sent to
custody for hunting migratory bird”.
A local level public representative opposed to the above statement and stated:
“There is no visible action taken by the district administration. Executive Magistrate who
is responsible for protecting ecologically critical area of TanguarHaor is living ‘Tekerghat’
which is far away from the Haor area. Police and ANSAR members are very few to protect
large area of TanguarHaor”.
From above statements, it appears that some initiatives have been taken for the purpose of
protecting migratory birds but these initiatives are not very effective. As executive magistrate
lives in far away from Haor area, disciplinary action cannot be taken any time. Inadequate
ANSAR members cannot guard large wetland area.

9.2. INITIATIVES TOWARDS PROTECTING SWAMP FOREST

Swamp forests have now become very thin due to cleaning, cutting and other anthropogenic
activities. District Administration, International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN),
peoples’ representatives are responsible for protecting Swamp forest of TanguarHaor.
An official of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) claimed:
“First of all we tried to make people aware about the conservation of swamp forest.
Nowadays a number of peoples are aware about the conservation of natural resources. In every
village there established cooperative organizations. To preserve swamp forest more than two
lac trees planted in Haor area. Recently more than sixty percent trees are visible”.

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 Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

A local level public representative contradicts with IUCN official, and noted:
“International Union for Conservation of Nature and District Administration did not play
appropriate role to preserve swamp forest of TanguarHaor. Maximum planted trees are not
visible. There was large scale of corruption in terms of buying and planting trees. No person is
punished due to illegal cutting of swamp forest. We (Peoples’ Representatives) try to cooperate
administration and IUCN to protect Tangua but they do not act properly”.
Recently there is no initiative to protect swamp forest of Tanguar Haor. There is no project
from government and NGOs to nurture the planted trees. International Union for conservation
of Nature has planted more than two lac trees for forestation is TanguarHaor. There exists a
large garden of ‘Karach’ trees in ‘Hatirkacha’ area. From the above statements of IUCN
officials, local government representatives, it can be said that there is lack of coordination
among these stakeholders. Currently government has no project to protect or nurture the swamp
forest of TanguarHaor.

9.3. INITIATIVES TOWARDS PROTECTING FISH SPECIES

TanguarHaor contains more than half of the total fish species of Bangladesh. TanguarHaor is
famous for biodiversity due to very diverse fish species of it. Illegal fishing, increasing trace
metal, increasing silt soil from Meghalaya hampers the ecosystem of fish species and other
aquatic animals.
An official of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) stated:
“To preserve rare fish species, restocking initiative has been taken by International Union
for Conservation of Nature. Restocking through cloning, fish hatching has remarkable success
to survive rare fish species”.
A local government official claimed:
“Currently we have no economic allocation to maintain TanguarHaor. Despite many
limitations we are trying to conserve biodiversity of TanguarHaor. Being a Deputy Secretary I
myself visit Haor area frequently. To protect fish species and prevent illegal fishing, an
executive magistrate is staying in that area 24 hours. The persons involved in illegal fishing are
being punished under traditional laws”.
The local level people’s representative, are trying to make aware people and keep them
away from illegal fishing in Haor. Union Parishad has arranged awareness meeting to build
awareness against illegal fishing. International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
initiated restocking of rare fish species for preservation of diverse fish species in TanguarHaor.
As government bureaucrats mentioned, an executive magistrate is assigned to protect illegal
fishing in Haor area. Awareness building programs have been initiated by the peoples’
representatives.

10. ENVIRONMENT FRIENDLY EMPLOYMENT

As most of the peoples are highly depended on nature, it is so tough to keep people away from
the activities which act as root cause of loss of biodiversity of TanguarHaor. Local people and
local government representatives have already demanded to government to open the door of
environment friendly employment. Otherwise it would be toughest task to protect biodiversity
of Tanguar Haor.
A local government official said:
“The government already has taken initiative to establish technical or vocational institute
for the purpose of making people efficient to contribute national economy without harming
natural resources. Besides a proposal is formulated by district administration to establish small
and cottage industry by which local people can be self-reliant”.

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

A Village farmer expressed his melancholy:

“Fishing, cutting forest, driving engine based boat etc. are forbidden for local people. How
can these poor people survive? As the people have no other options to survive, they involve in
banned activities. It is the demand of Haor area people that environment friendly employment
opportunity should be created by the government to combat illegal activities”.
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) took some initiatives to make
people self-reliant through various training such as- operating sewing machine, handicraft etc.
but due to end of the tenure of the project it did not come to success. From the above statements
of relevant stakeholders, it can be said that there is no opportunity of involving environment
friendly employment instead of fishing, boatmanship of engine driven boat, wood cutting etc.
District administration prepared a proposal of establishing small and cottage industry. The
government also has declared to establish vocational educational institutions in Haor area.
IUCN provided training to the people for making them self-reliant.

11. ROLE OF INTERNATIONAL UNION FOR CONSERVATION OF

NATURE (IUCN)
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) established a collaborative
management system for the purpose conservation, stabilisation and sustainable use of the
natural resources of TanguarHaor. IUCN completed their project in three phases. But there is a
debate about the success of big budgeted project done by IUCN.
An official of International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN), said:
“Actually we have conducted our projects in three phases. In first phase we tried to organize
knowledge on TanguarHaor to provide necessary input for development phase and to select the
communities to participate pilot co-management activities. In second Phase, IUCN established
community based management system for the conservation and sustainable use of natural
resources of TanguarHaor. Finally in third phase, co-management system is amalgamated and
effective. The peoples have improved livelihoods and increased incomes and some of them
become self-reliant”.
A local government official claimed:
“It was looting project. There is no effectiveness of IUCN’s project on local people. People
still cut forest, involve illegal fishing activities. They form cooperative committees but the
members of these committees are inactive. Some influential persons intended to loot allocations
and budgets which was allocated for local community”.
There were both negative and positive side of IUCN activities. They trained up some
peoples who had actively participated on conservation process. They planted trees and
restocked fisheries. IUCN also conducted some research which will help our further initiatives.
In the contrast, the trained people involved in looting and illegal fishing, cutting swamp forest
in night. They played their role as spoiler instead of conserver. IUCN established 40 Village
Development Cooperative Society. These cooperative societies actively participated in
conservation of biodiversity. A central cooperative society named as TanguarHaor Central
Village Development Cooperative Society consists of forty members- each from every
cooperative society. Cooperative societies had done awareness programs. Cooperative societies
provided community guard, fund for maintaining guards. About 40 community guards worked
for protecting swamp forest and illegal fishing. From above statements, it appears that
International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has contributed to preserve biodiversity
of TanguarHaor. They have conducted their project in three phases. IUCN conducted research
on TanguarHaor that will help for further initiatives or further research. For preserving rare fish
species IUCN took initiative of restocking rare fish species. Forestation initiative also has been

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 Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

taken by IUCN. They established Village Development Cooperative Societies for the purpose
of making people self-reliant. Though a number of commendable initiatives, IUCN has been
criticised for some irregularities. Local government representatives and government agencies
claimed that middle level officials of IUCN involved in corruption. Forestation and restocking
of rare fish species is eye washing initiative. Besides, village development cooperative society
has been criticised for corruption and mismanagement.

12. PUBLIC AWARENESS

Awareness building is one of the most important preconditions to enact people in conserving
biodiversity of TanguarHaor. Most of the peoples are unaware about the consequences of the
misuse of natural resource of TanguarHaor. International Union for Conservation of Nature
(IUCN) attempted to make people aware through arranging various programs. Besides IUCN,
district administration and local government representatives has also taken some initiatives to
make people aware.
One of villagers mentioned about awareness building initiatives, as:
“IUCN makes us aware about the importance of biodiversity and proper utilization of
natural resources through various programs such as village meeting, awareness meeting,
awareness campaign, drama showing, documentary showing etc.”
A local government official said:
“Frequently district administration arranges some meetings and seminars for the purpose of
making people aware about importance of TanguarHaor and its resources. Few days ago district
administration organised a seminar on ‘Unnoyon Bhabona’ (Development Thought)”.
Above statements appear that International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN)
arranged some awareness building programs like village meeting, awareness meeting,
awareness campaign, drama showing, documentary showing etc. Besides IUCN, district
administration and local government representatives initiated some program for awareness
building. Since lots of awareness building programs, people still unaware about the
conservation of biodiversity of TanguarHaor.

12.1. Coordination of government, NGOs and peoples’ representatives

Government bodies, local government representatives and Non-Government Organizations are
the important stakeholders of TanguarHaor. They usually play vital role in protecting aquatic
animals and organisms from internal and external threats. When IUCN conducted their project
in Tanguar Haor, it was observed that there was lack of coordination among government
officials, local government representatives and IUCN officials. Respondents from one group
complain against another
One peoples ‘representative claimed:
“International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) has been conducted a project in
three tenures for ten years but did not include us (Local government Representatives) for a
single time. Personally I did not get any invitation from IUCN. Besides district administration
do not coordinate with us in terms of financing, supporting and other functions”.
An official of IUCN argued:
“Every Village Development Cooperative Society has been doing their job by the direct or
indirect direction of Union Parishad representatives. IUCN always try to involve peoples’
representatives in cooperative activities”.
There is found discrepancy among government agencies, non-government organizations
and local government representatives. IUCN conducted their project without involving local
government representatives and government agencies. In the same way, government agencies

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

did not coordinate with peoples’ representatives in executing any policy or project.
Coordination among these stakeholders is necessary for protecting biodiversity of
TanguarHaor.

13. FURTHER ACTIONS TO PROMOTE BIODIVERSITY

CONSERVATION
13.1. Accountability and transparency of stakeholders
Most of the respondents believe that accountability and transparency of relevant stakeholders
are not ensured. Especially International Union for Conservation of Nature (IUCN) conducted
the project of TK 100 crore (1 billion) budget but there is a question that whether they expend
the budget in transparent manner. Although IUCN thinks that both internal and external
accountability mechanism has been ensured in this project where internal accountability
ensured through cooperative society. However, there is a big controversy about this.
One Peoples’ representative said:
“There was no accountability mechanism to make IUCN officials accountable. The way of
expending money was not in transparent manner as far I know. As we are peoples’
representatives, peoples complain to us about the corruption IUCN officials in collaboration
with local influential persons”.
A local level government official noted:
“We (District Administration) are not responsible to make IUCN officials accountable.
Ministry of Forest and Environment Affairs ministry can ensure accountability of IUCN. But
accountability of administrative officials and police personnel is ensured. The executive
magistrate has to report to the office of the deputy commissioner what initiatives he takes and
why”.

13.2. Haor based tourism industry and conservation of biodiversity

Recently tourists have shown great interest towards TanguarHaor. In every year, thousands of
tourists visit the Haor and enjoy the beauty of country’s second RAMSAR site. Though over
crowd of tourists hamper the natural ecosystem of aquatic animals and migratory birds, the
stakeholders want to spread Haor based tourism and to conserve the biodiversity of
TanguarHaor simultaneously.
A government official said:
“TanguarHaor based tourism industry can be another important source of revenue of the
government. It can help the local people to be self-reliant. Local infrastructure like-Road,
Calvert, Transportation, Rest House, Guest House should be established well planned.
Alongside initiatives should be taken to protect biodiversity of TanguarHaor. Engine driven
boat should be forbidden, specific area should be highly protected and restricted, and watch
towers should be built to enjoy natural beauty of TanguarHaor.”
One Peoples’ Representative stated:
“If tourism industry spreads in TanguarHaor, the local people will be benefited
economically. It will help the people to survive without hampering the Haor and aquatic
animals. Through tourism industry, employment opportunity will be created and people will
not be involved in illegal fishing and cutting swamp forest”.
Most of the respondents believe that Haor based tourism industry can be spread and
biodiversity of TanguarHaor can be conserved simultaneously. By forbidding engine driven
boat, restricting specific areas, building watch towers to enjoy natural beauty and appointing
more ANSAR and police personnel, biodiversity of TanguarHaor can be preserved. For the

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 Dr. Esmat Ara and Shah Md. Ziaul Islam

purpose of spreading Haor based tourism industry, local infrastructure like -road-culvert,
transportation, rest house, guest house etc. should be developed.

13.3. Increased number of appointed ANSAR members

TanguarHaor expands with the area of 9,727 hectares but there are only 14 ANSAR members
to protect the huge wetland area. Only 14 ANSAR members are divided into 4 ANSAR camp.
It is too tough to protect large wetland area from the enemy of nature.
A government official said:
“It is impossible to protect 9727 hectares wetland area by 14 ANSAR members. To maintain
TanguarHaor efficiently there need at least 100 ANSAR members needed who will perform
their duty shift wise”.
There are lots of limitations in maintaining TanguarHaor. Only 14 ANSAR members have
been performing their duty for long time. It is notable that The ANSAR members have not been
getting salaries since May 2018.

13.4. Implement disciplinary actions without any Interference

In the time of punishing offenders who are involved in destroying natural resources of
TanguarHaor, peoples ‘representatives often create pressure upon administrative authorities to
release offenders.
A local government official claimed:
“Some local government representatives cooperate in taking disciplinary action but some
representatives try to interfere or create pressure in taking disciplinary action. As a result,
offenders get release and involved in illegal activities”.
By denying the above allegation, one peoples’ representative noted:
“As a local government representative, we can ask any question about any administrative
action. The administrative authorities do not like to be accountable to the mass people”.
From above statements, it appears that there is lack of coordination and cooperation between
administrative authorities and local government representatives. As local government
representatives need vote of mass people, they sometimes try to keep the voters safe from
punishment. Hence, the administration should have the ability to take actions against the
offenders of violating biodiversity and environment related discipline without any pressure
from peoples’ representatives.

14. LIMITATIONS OF THE STUDY

There are some limitations, the researcher had to face. Due to there is constraint of time, there
were few difficulties to conduct study. It was difficult to convince the respondent and make
prepared for interview as most of the respondents hold top position of the government as well
as the region. So, interviewing took time, which was harder to get from the older and female
people. Some respondents were politically biased. As research area was in TanguarHaor area,
it was very costly to collect data by attending researcher physically. Although, there were some
limitations, the researcher has tried his best to make the research better.

15. CONCLUDING REMARKS WITH POLICY IMPLICATIONS

The ecological system surrounding the TanguarHaor provides livelihood to some 77,000
population spread over 88 villages (Census of TH, 2007). For these people, Haor is a source of
them income, employment as well as their livelihood. It provides rice and fish to them, the
major two sources of income earning for the households. After conducting research, it is clear
that ecosystem and biodiversity of TanguarHaor is in danger for so many reasons. Since 1990s

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 Role of Stakeholders in Preserving Biodiversity in Bangladesh: A Study on Tanguar Haor

the government took different initiatives for protecting TanguarHaor. After two or three
decades, the country’s second ramsar site Tanguar Haor is still under great threat in terms of
loss of biodiversity and ecosystem. There is lack of coordination among government agencies,
local government representatives and NGOs. Ministry of Forestry and Environment Affairs do
not appropriately coordinate with district administration. To preserve biodiversity of
TanguarHaor, management system should be developed at first. A comprehensive management
plan must be developed for TanguarHaor that can ensure active participation of relevant
stakeholders. Spreading tourism industry with preserving biodiversity of TanguarHaor will be
great challenge for government. The government should appoint adequate manpower to manage
tourism industry. Besides, proper guidelines should be developed for tourists and local people.
To keep local people away from the illegal activities in Haor area, environment friendly
employment opportunity should be created urgently. At last it can be said that the countries’
important wetland area is in danger. The following necessary measures should be introduced to
conserve one of the most diverse wetland (TanguarHaor) of Bangladesh.
 Comprehensive management plan of Tanguar Haor should be developed so that coordination
among peoples’ representatives, NGOs and government officials can be ensured.
 Vocational educational institution should be established by which people can be transformed
into human resources and they can involve in those occupations that will not hamper natural
ecosystem of aquatic animals and migratory birds.
 To keep the poor people away from the illegal activities in Haor area, environment friendly
employment opportunity should be created. For this purpose, government can provide small
loan without interest or with minimum interest to the peoples for establishing small and cottage
industry, farming etc.
 Proper guideline should be formulated for the tourists so that they can enjoy natural beauty
without hampering biodiversity of Tanguar Haor. Some measures should be taken to protect
biodiversity of Tanguar Haor and to promote tourism based on Tanguar Haor simultaneously.
 Corrupted government officials, NGOs officials, ANSARs and police personnel must be
punished. Zero tolerance policy should be adopted against corruption. To combat corruption,
regulatory bodies should monitor closely the activities and role of the relevant stakeholders.

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