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SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF FISHERMEN IN KAPTAI LAKE AREA
A THESIS
BY
ABDULLAH AL MAMUN
EXAMINATION ROLL NO. 10 Fish Aqua. JJ-01 M
SEMESTER: JULY- DECEMBER, 2011
REGISTRATION NO.31706
SESSION: 2004-2005
MASTER OF SCIENCE (M.S.)
IN
AQUACULTURE
DEPARTMENT OF AQUACULTURE
BANGLADESH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
MYMENSINGH
NOVEMBER, 2011
2
SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF FISHERMEN IN KAPTAI LAKE AREA
A THESIS
BY
ABDULLAH AL MAMUN
EXAMINATION ROLL NO. 10 Fish Aqua. JJ-01 M
SEMESTER: JULY-DECEMBER, 2011
REGISTRATION NO.31706
SESSION: 2004-2005
Submitted to the Department of Aquaculture Faculty of Fisheries
Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh in partial fulfillment of the requirements
for the degree of
MASTER OF SCIENCE (M.S.)
IN AQUACULTURE
DEPARTMENT OF AQUACULTURE BANGLADESH AGRICULTURAL UNIVERSITY
MYMENSINGH
NOVEMBER, 2011
3
SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF FISHERMEN IN KAPTAI LAKE AREA
A THESIS
BY
ABDULLAH AL MAMUN
EXAMINATION ROLL NO. 10 Fish Aqua. JJ-01 M
SEMESTER: JULY-DECEMBER, 2011
REGISTRATION NO.31706
SESSION: 2004-2005
Approved as to style and contents by:
Prof. Dr. Md. Mohsin Ali
Prof. Dr.S.M. Rahmatullah
Supervisor Co-supervisor
______________________________ Professor Dr. Md. Ali Reza Faruk
Chairman Examination Committee
and Head Department of Aquaculture
Bangladesh Agricultural University Mymensingh
NOVEMBER, 2011
4
Abstract
The investigation was conducted on the socio-economic conditions of fishermen in Kaptai Lake
under the district of Rangamati. The data were collected from seven areas such as Mogpara,
Noadam, Dhebacharipara, Hajachari, Panchari, Perachra and Reserve Bazar. A questionnaire
survey was made to collect the information related to socio-economic conditions of the
fishermen. A total of 71 fishermen were selected by random sampling method and interviewed.
From the survey it was found that out of 71 fishermen 68 (96%) were male and 3 (4%) were
female. A large portion of fishermen were Buddhist fishermen (70%) the other fishermen were,
Hindus (21%) and few of them were Muslims (9%). About (91%) fishermen were found as
married. The size of average household was 5.35 people where 2.80 were male and 2.55 were
female. The average members of joint family were 6.22 per household. The sex ratios of
fishermen were (96%) male and (4%) female. Most of them had the primary educational
background and some of them with different levels of higher education. It was found that the
number of school going children was 1.56 per house and 57% were school dropout boy and 43%
were girl. Full katcha (88%) houses were more abundant, while the semi-pacca (12%) houses
were few and about (60%) did not used electricity. Regarding health and sanitation, about 85%
of the fishermen were suffered with different types of diseases including rumatic fever,
dysentery, jaundice, mal nutrition, gastric, diarrhoea, fever and 15% fishermen did not suffered
by any types of diseases last year. In this study area, 50% fishermen had below 50 decimal lands
and 47% fishermen had no lands and 3% fishermen had above 50 decimal lands. Their monthly
average income was recorded TK. 3500.00 ± 4000.00. In survey, it was found that 50% of the
fishermen borrowed money from the NGO’s, 20% from relatives, 20% from moneylenders, 4%
from banks and 6% from neighbors. It was apparent from the present study that majority (75%)
of people took meals three items daily and 18% took two meals per day and 7% took four meals
per day. About 72% of the fishermen used tube-well water for drinking, 17% of the fishermen
used well or indira water for drinking, 4% of the fishermen used ring-well water for drinking and
7% used Kaptai Lake water or other sources. However, they need more institutional,
organizational and technical and credit support for their better socio-economic betterment and
sustainable livelihood.
5
ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS
The author always likes to bow his head to Almighty Allah who enabled him to pursue the research work and writing up this thesis for the degree of Master of Science (M.S.) in Aquaculture. The author sincerely expresses his deep sense of gratefulness, indebtedness and profound respect to his honorable teacher and supervisor, Dr. Md. Mohosin Ali, Professor, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh for his scholastic supervision, valuable suggestions, sympathetic co-operation, helpful advice, constructive criticism, painstaking correction of the manuscript and affectionate feeling at all stages of this study period, research work and preparation of this thesis. The author also finds great pleasure to express his sincere appreciation and immense indebtedness to his co-supervisor, Prof. Dr. S. M. Rahmatullah, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh for his sympathetic consideration, valuable suggestions, painstaking correction of the manuscript and constructive criticism throughout the research period and the thesis work. The author would like to acknowledge his sincere gratitude to Professor Dr. Md. Ali Reza Faruk Head, Department of Aquaculture, Bangladesh Agricultural University, Mymensingh for his kind co-operation, valuable instruction and cordial support during this research work. The author feels it an opportunity to express his gratitude, indebtedness and profound respect to his honorable teachers, Prof. Dr. Kirtunia Juran Chandra, Prof. Dr. Monoronjan Das, prof. Dr. Md. Bazlur Rashid Chowdhury, prof. Dr. M. Mamnur Rashid, Prof. Dr. Md. Ruhul Amin, Prof. Dr. Ahsan Bin Habib, Prof. Dr. Gias Uddin Ahmed, Prof. Dr. M. A. Salam, Dr. Mohammad Mahfujul Haque and Mr. Md. Sazzad Hossain for their valuable suggestions and sympathetic co-operation throughout the research period.
The author would like to express special thanks to his friends Rony saha, Red ronee, Nazir, joyanta, Misu, roni, jahid, and Panu Sayam for their helpful suggestions and sympathetic co-operation throughout the research period. The author can never repay the debt to his beloved parents Md. Siddiqur Rahman and Rahima Begum, Younger and elder brother Abdullah al Masud, Abdullah al Faruque and Azad Vifor their sacrifice, blessings and encouragements during his study at BAU. The Author November, 2011
6
CONTENTS
CHAPTER TITLE PAGE ABSTRACT i ACKNOWLEDGEMENTS ii
CONTENTS 6-v LIST OF FIGURES vi
LIST OF PLATES vii LIST OF ABBREVIATIONS AND NON-ENGLISH
WORDS viii
1 INTRODUCTION 1-3 2 REVIEW OF LITERATURE 4-10 3 MATERIALS AND METHODS 11-18 3.1 Study Area 11
3.2 Selection of the Study Area 11 3.3 Study Time 11 3.4 Field survey and observation
11 3.5 Questionnaire survey 12 3.6 Collection of data 12
3.7 3.8 3.9
Data analysis A framework of activities SWOT Analysis of Kaptai Lake
13 14 15
4 RESULTS 19-40
4.1 Socio-economic condition of the fishermen 19 4.1.1 Socio-economic characteristics
19
4.1.2 Sex 19
4.1.3 Age group
20
4.1.4
Religion
21
4.1.5 4.1.6
Marital status Family
21 22
4.1.6.1 Family type
22
7
CONTENTS (Contd.)
4.1.6.2 Family condition
22
4.1.6.3 Family structure
23
4.1.6.4 No. of family members
24
4.1.7 Housing condition
24
4.1.7.1 House type
24
4.1.7.2 4.1.8
Use of electricity Educational status
25 25
4.1.8.1 Education level of fishermen
25
4.1.8.2 School going and dropout children of fishermen
26
4.1.8.3 Causes of school dropout
27
4.2 Occupation
27
4.3 Assets 28
4.3.1 Agricultural land ownership
28
4.3.2 4.4
Poultry and livestock Food and nutrition
29 30
4.4.1 Food item intake by the fishermen
30
4.4.2 Number of meal per day
30
4.5 Health and sanitation
31
4.5.1 Main sources of drinking water
31
4.5.2 Sanitation practice of the fishermen
32
8
CONTENTS (Contd.)
4.5.3 Suffering diseases during last year
33
4.5.4
4.6
Nature of treatment
Marketing system
34
34
4.7 Income 37
4.7.1 Income and living standard 37
4.7.2 Monthly income
37
4.7.3 Yearly income 37
4.8 Economic condition
38
4.8.1 Money borrowing 38
4.8.2 Purpose of borrowing money
38
5
6
4.9
List of fish species available in Kaptai Lake
DISCUSSION
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
REFERENCES
39
41-45
46-47
48-52
APPENDIX 53-55
9
LIST OF FIGURES
SL. NO. TITLE PAGE
1 Flow chart of work plan of the study 14 2 Map of Rangamati District and location of study area 16 3 Map of Rangamati Sadar Upazila and location of study area 17 4 Map of Kaptai Lake and location of study area 18 5 Proportion of sex ratio 19 6 Age group of fishermen 20 7 Religion status of fishermen 21 8 Marital status of fishermen 21 9 Family type of the fishing community 22 10 Family structure of fishermen 23
11 Housing condition of fishermen 24 12 Use of electricity of fishermen 25 13 Educational status of fishermen 26
14 Percentages of school dropout boys and girls 26
15 Causes of school dropout children of fishermen 27
16 Occupation of the fishermen 28 17 Agricultural land ownership of fishermen 29
18 Poultry and livestock's of fishermen 29
19 Food and Nutrition intake of fishermen 30
20 Number of meal per day 31
21 Main sources of drinking water of fishermen 32
22 Different sanitation practice of the fishermen 33
23 Suffering disease during last year 33
24 Types of treatment 34
25 Yearly income status of fishermen 38
10
LIST OF PLATES PLATE TITLE PAGE NO.
1 A snap shot of Kaptai Lake fishing 11
2 Showing the data collection from fisherman.
13
3 Focus Group Discussion with fisherman in the Kaptai Lake 13
11
List of List of abbreviations and non-English words BBS Bangladesh Bureau of Statistics BFDC Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation BFRI Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute CPP Compartmentalization Pilot Project DoF Department of Fisheries DFID Department For International Development FAO Food and Agriculture Organization GO Governmental Organization NGO Non- Government Organization PRA Participatory Rural Appraisal SWOT Strength, Weak, Opportunity and Threats
12
CHAPTER 1
INTRODUCTION
Fish and fishery resources play a vital role in improving socio-economic conditions of the
fishermen and related people those are involved with its business. It also plays important
combating mal-nourishment, earning foreign currency and creating employment
opportunities in Bangladesh. This country is blessed with huge water bodies in the form
of rivers, canal, natural depressions (haors and beels), reservoir Kaptai Lake, Ox-bow
Lakes, ponds, tanks, seasonally flooded areas and Bay of Bengal. Bangladesh is endowed
with very considerable areas of marine, estuarine and inland water with a great potential
of fisheries and aquaculture (Rahman, 1994).
Bangladesh is situated in the sub-tropical region has an area of 1, 47,570 sq.km. It is an
agro-based riverine country. The inland fishery of Bangladesh is one of the most
productive resources of the world. The inland water bodies are rich in freshwater fish
species comprising 260 indigenous, 12 exotic and 24 fresh water prawn species (DoF,
2008). The fisheries resources of Bangladesh represents about one percent of the total
world fish catch (FAO, 1997).
The people of Bangladesh depend on fish is the principal source of animal protein. All
fisheries sector contributes 58% of an animal protein of our daily diet (DoF, 2008).
Per capita per day fish consumption, which was 32g in mid sixties, declined to the level
of 20g in mid eighties (FAO, 1985). Fish production has increased significantly over the
last few years. During 2009-2010, the total fisheries production in Bangladesh was 28,
99,198 metric tons (MT) in which inland fisheries and marine fisheries comprised 23,
81,916 MT and 5, 17,282 MT that were 80% and 20% of the total production,
respectively. This production level reflects per capita per year availability of 16.62
13
kilogram (kg) of fish where the minimum requirement was about 18 kg per year (DoF,
2010).
Kaptai Lake has 'H' shaped structure and two arms of this Lake are joined near Shuvalong
which is a part of the Karnaphuli River. Total surface area of Kaptai Lake is 68,800
hectare and average water depth is about 9 meters with maximum depth of 32 meters.
The shoreline and basin of this water body are very irregular. South-Eastern Bangladesh
lies between latitudes 22°29′45″N and longitudes 92°13′45″E. Average depth 100 ft
(30 m) and maximum depth is 495 ft (151 m) (Ahmed, BFRI, Rangamati, 2009).
Kaptai Lake or reservoir was created due to constructing of dam on the river Karnafuli
near Kaptai town in 1960-1961. Kaptai reservoir distribute in huge area of the Rangamati
District. This Lake was primarily created for hydro-electrical power generation. At the
end of the monsoon area found to be about 68,800 hectares and the average water reserve
of 524.7 × 107 m3
The land that went under water as a result of the dam construction was 40% of the total
arable land in the area. Along with that, 29 square miles (75 km
. The Lake has a rich fish fauna and so far 72 species of fish (67
indigenous and 5 exotic species) and prawn were identified from the reservoir. Of them
36 species were found to be commercially important. Since 1964, it has been managed by
the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) which directs the
exploitation and management of the Lake reservoir. The fishermen are only depended on
their livelihood by catching fish in Kaptai Lake. There socio-economic conditions change
day by day. In this regard, the study focuses especially on the assignment of the socio-
economical patterns of fishermen in Rangamati District. (Ahmed, BFRI, Rangamati,
2009).
2) of the Government-
owned forest, and 234 square miles (610 km2) of other forest land went under water.
About 18,000 families with a total of almost 100 thousand people were also displaced.
14
The palace of the king of the Chakmas was also flooded and is now under water (Ahmed,
BFRI, Rangamati, 2009).
During water logging, the fishery, agriculture and socio-economic structure of the area
began to collapse. People lost their land under water. In the true sense, the whole agro-
based community becomes land less and financially shattered. But now several culture
practices like pen culture and creek culture are seen in this area. Agricultural, capture
fishery and socioeconomic status are quite different from the water logging period.
On the other hand, there are two phases in income earning activities of the people in
Kaptai Lake. One before 1960-61s when people based on the cultivation of agricultural
product and another is after 1960-61s when people switchover their income earning
activities in fishing. This study mainly focuses specifically on the present condition of
capture fishery and socio-economic conditions of the fishermen in and around Kaptai
Lake.
The study is performed to fulfill the following objectives:
• To assess the socio-economic conditions of involved fishermen.
• To find out some possible suggestions to uplift the livelihood status of local
fishermen.
15
CHAPTER 2
REVIEW OF LITERATURE
The present survey has been conducted on the socio-economic condition pattern of
fishermen communities at Kaptai Lake in Rangamati District. Fishermen are traditionally
poor. They live from hand to mouth. They are socially, economically and educationally
disadvantaged communities and lack of their own financial resources (Rahman, 1994).
The fishermen communities have been affected socio-economically from the very past
and there are no alternatives for them. In general, efforts were made to the review
relevant literatures on the socio-economic aspects of the fishermen communities and
change in the impacts of environment and fish production in the Kaptai Lake and other
water bodies system. Studies on the socio-economic aspects of fishermen though not very
rare, with respect to the problem they are faced with, however the situation arising out all
over the country. The following are the accounts of review.
Fisheries activities are considered as a low-class profession and fishermen are
traditionally poor. They live from hand to mouth (Hannan, 1994). The average age of
coastal fishermen has been reported between 40 and 42.4 years (DFID, 2001). In
Bangladesh, most of the fishermen are illiterate and few have primary level of education
(Rahman, 1994; Bailey and Doulman, 1994). Only about fifteen percent of them are
literate. Their per capita income and living standard are at the lowest ebb (Chowdhury,
1994).
DoF (1990) conducted a survey on the socioeconomic conditions of the fishermen in
eleven Upazilas of the District of Patuakhail and Barguna under fisheries extension
development project and reported that rate of literacy among fishing communities is far
less than others areas, their economic condition was so bad that they often could not
afford educational expenses for their children. Many fishing households had no latrines
16
of any type. Most of the fishermen were landless; about 7080% fishermen were labors
(work in another gears and boats). About 70% of the fishermen had an average daily
income of TK 2025 and the rest 30% had TK 2540.
Rahman and Hassan (1992) established some basic information on socioeconomic
characters of Kaptai Lake fishermen. It was found that about four hundred to five
hundred fishing units are engaged each year in the Lake area. Chakraborty et al. (1995)
described the fishing methods used in inland waters of Bangladesh along with the
structural design of various types of fishing gears. These gears have been classified into
nine major categories according to their mode of operation and the capabilities of these
gears have been reviewed in terms of harvesting fish from inland water bodies of
Bangladesh.
Bhaumik and Saha (1994) carried out a study to assess the socio-economic conditions of
the fishermen engaged in fishing in some estuaries of Sundarbans. The age group of the
sampled fishermen varied between 20 years and 70 years. Most of them belonged to
scheduled caste community; 36.6% had have 21-30 years of experience in fishing. They
operated dinghi type of boat, size range of which varied between 7.92 and 9.14m.
Majority of them (41.5%) operated beg net. About 24.0% of them undertook fishing
operation for 241-260 days and 39.6% spend 12 hours per day for fishing. On an average
29.0% of them caught 131-150kg fish per month. During off-season 23.4% of them
undertook the job of net making or mending or repairing and 50.4% earned about Rs.
501-600 per month whereas during season income of 36.4% of them varied between
Rs.801-900.
Ahmed (1996) found that the full time fishermen in Tangail District area were 84%; 24%
had subsidiary occupation, 81% were found fishing throughout the year and 92% were
member of some associations, clubs and co-operatives. Ahmed (1999) also studied the
17
socioeconomic conditions of the coastal fishermen and reported that 73.33% earned taka
50 per day and lest earned very less.
Tsai and Ali (1997) reported that the supply of fish depends upon the season, a number of
fishermen engaged in fishing and their fishing method. The fishermen during fishing use
various types of fishing gears and crafts. Different types of fishing gear that are used
changes with seasons, according to flooding condition, target species and sizes of species.
Except a few types of fishing gear which has a specific target species and most of them
are for the multiple species purpose. Generally the fishermen use all conceivable types of
fishing gear, ranging from bare hand to sophisticated seine and gill nets to catch fish. A
type of fishing gear may have different names in different regions. Some are after the
names of target species of fish. Moreover, the fishermen use the fishing crafts
considering the availability and their capability.
Roy and Dorairaj (1998) conducted a socio-economic survey on the fishermen
community in 10 localities of fisherman in South Andaman, 4 localities in Middle and 3
localities in North Andaman. The average family size ranged between 4 and 6 in all
localities. In South Andaman the literacy rate varied from 19.85 to 66.07% with an
average of 45.3%. Almost literate on an average 61.91% have studied up to primary
standard. In Middle Andaman literacy male in RRO Camp Ranga and Rangat Bay were
28.92 and 27.81%, respectively. The fishing season varied from locality to locality.
During peak season fish landings in South Andaman, Middle and North Andaman varied
from the lowest range of Rs. 816-1225 per month at Choudari to Rs. 7,866-10,200 at
Panighat in South Andaman. The average monthly expenditure per family in different
localities ranged between Rs. 845 and 2800.
Ahmed (1999) studied the socioeconomic conditions of coastal fishermen and reported
that 73.33% fishermen mentioning their daily income above TK.50 and for rest of the
18
fishermen 26.67% daily income were less than TK.50 during the fry catching season.
Most of their housing condition was poor, their houses were made of mud and one kind
of weed leaves (Locally called Golpata), 68.33% Muslims and 31.67% Hindus, 70%
fishermen belonging to age group below 40 years, family size 6.4, 75% of the fishermen
were illiterate, less than 5% fishermen went to village doctors. Most fishermen used pond
water because lack of tube well.
Mannu (1999) studied the socioeconomic conditions of the sea going fishermen at
Kuakata and reported that 92% of the fishermen were married, 96% belonging to 18-40
age group, 72% were full time fishermen, 20% had subsidiary occupation, 36% had their
own living house, 16% possessed crop land including house, ranging between 30 decimal
to 5 acre, 28% live in Khas land outside the dam, 12% live jointly with their father, 89%
earn on average 25 thousand taka per year, 14% earn from other sector too, 88% saying
fishing as beneficial, 8% saying living from hand to mouth, only 2% owning of a trawler,
4% fishing during winter and rainy season and 3% claiming becoming debtor instead
surplus earner.
Quddus et al. (2000) found that educational levels of pond farmers in Dhaka was bellow
SSC 43%, below bachelor 38% and bachelor and above were 19% respectively, but there
was no illiterate fish farmer.
Shahjahan (2000) studied on the socio-economic condition of fishermen of the Jamuna
river. He presented the socio-economic condition of riverine fishermen in terms of
religion, family size and composition, education status and income. He found that the
Muslims were featuring as the absolute majority (66.67%) and the Hindus were
remarkably lower (33.37%). The largest family size (7, 87 persons) belonged to the ber
jal fisherman and the lowest family size (5.25 persons) was found among the current jal.
Regarding the educational level 66.33% of riverine fishermen were illiterate, 31.67%
19
were up to primary level and 5.0% had only secondary level. In general, majority of the
fishermen were illiterate. The highest average monthly income found among the ber jal
fishermen. He concluded that ber jal fishermen were more efficient than those having
other gears.
Hossain (2001) reported regarding the education level of fishermen that 65% riverine
fishermen were illiterate, 30% were up to primary level and 5% had only secondary level.
Mahbubur (2001) conducted the socio-economic conditions of the haor fishermen in Itna,
Kishoregonj. The largest family size (7.57 persons) belonged to the big cast net
fishermen group and lowest family size (5.06 persons) was found among the gill net
group. Regarding the education level, 68% of haor fishermen were illiterate, 28% were
up to primary level and 4% had only secondary level of education. The monthly average
income was highest in the seine net fishing and lowest in case of push net.
Rokanuzzaman (2004) reported that majority (42.3%) of the fishermen were the young
aged category, while 36.6% and 21.1% belonged to middle aged and old aged categories
respectively. On the basis of their family size, the respondents were classified into three
categories, namely small family (2-4 members), medium family (5-6 members) and large
family (>6 members).
Islam (2005) conducted a survey on socio-economic status of fish farmers in some
selected areas of Dinajpur district and found that the average pond size was 0.16 ha (40
decimals) with range from 0.40 ha (11 decimals) to 0.81 ha (200 decimals). In the study
60% of ponds were seasonal and 64% were perennial; 76% of farmers had single
ownership and 24% had multiples ownership. He found that the period of fry stocking
was from March to May and average stocking density was found to be 17,370 fry/
ha/year. Rice bran and mustard oil cake were commonly used as feed for fish culture at
20
the rate of 1,976 kg/ha/year and 371 kg/ha / year, respectively. The average use of
organic fertilizer (mainly cow dung), urea and TSP was 3,242 kg/ha/year, 294 kg/
ha/year, respectively. The average annual yield of fish was found to be 2,609 kg/ ha/ year
in the study area. He identified that, the lack of scientific knowledge, poor supply of fry,
high production cost diseases lack of money, poor credit facilities, poor institutional
support and inadequate extension services were the main problems for pond fish farming.
Faruque (2006) conducted a socio-economic status of fishers in Borobela beel. Among
the fishers the percentage of Muslims, Hindus and others were 80%, 12.5% and 7.5%
respectively. The average number of family members of the fishermen was 6.3. The
fishermen’s housing condition, health and sanitary condition were very poor. Most of the
fishermen’s (82.5%) house and toilets (67.5) were mud made. The average highest and
lowest monthly incomes of the fishermen were BDT 3250 and BDT 2350 respectively.
Hossain (2007) studied on socio-economic conditions of haor fishermen. The largest
family size (7.26) was found in the seine net fishermen group and lowest family size
(5.00) was found in the push net fishermen group. Regarding the educational level,
66.67% of the haor fishermen were illiterate, 30% of them had primary and 3.33% of
them had secondary level of education. The highest monthly average income was found
in the seine net fishermen group and the lowest monthly average income was found in the
push net fishermen group.
Robbani (2007) described that housing condition of fishermen were 76.67% kacha, were
half building (semi pacca) and 8.33% were pacca. The study also showed that 45% of
fishermen were dependent on village doctor, while 11.67% and 3.33% got health service
from upazila health complex and MBBS doctors respectively. Regarding sanitary
facilities only 6.67% of fishermen had pacca toilet.
21
Hossain (2008) stated that most of the respondents (members of coastal communities)
were illiterate (60%) and only 14% and 16% had passed primary and secondary level of
education respectively. The annual family income of a respondent was measured by his
income from fishing, agriculture, business and salt cultivation etc during a year. Majority
of the people fell into low and medium income group (58% and 35% respectively).
Proportion of high income people was only 5%.
Rahman (2008) studied the socio-economic status of fishermen of Jamuna river. Among
the fishermen, muslims and hindus were 92.5% and 7.5% respectively. It was found that
age group of 30-40 years was the highest (67.5%) and age group less than 30 years was
the lowest (17.5%). The average family size was 5.68 persons. Among the fishermen,
52.5% illiterate, 22.5% semiliterate ( capable of writing their name), 15% educated up to
primary level, 7.5% educated up to secondary level and 2.5% educated up to S.S.C. level
were recorded.
Ahmed (2009) reported the Kaptai Lake fishery that major carps was the highest
contributing group 33.39% followed by chapila 23.59% and dry fishes were contribute
11.45%.
22
CHAPTER 3
MATERIALS AND METHODS
3.1. Study Area
The study was conducted on the fishermen of Kaptai Lake. During January to April,
2011. 71 fishermen of 7 areas were interviewed during the survey.
3.2. Selection of the Study Area
The study was carried out in seven villages. These are Mogpara,
Noadam,Dhebacharipara, Hajachari, Panchari, Perachra and Reserve Bazar in Kaptai
Lake of the Rangamati District. These areas were selected to carry out the survey on the
socio-economic conditions of fishermen. The fishermen were selected randomly from
Kaptai Lake.
Plate1. A snap shot of Kaptai Lake fishing.
3.3. Study Time
The survey was undertaken for a period of four months (January to April, 2011)
3.4. Field survey and observation
For collecting data on various aspects of socio-economic condition of fishermen, field
survey was conducted in the 7 areas of Kaptai Lake. About 71 fishermen were randomly
23
selected from out of the total 7 areas. A range of Participatory Rural Appraisal (PRA) and
personal interview were applied with different degree of effectiveness.
3.5. Questionnaire survey
To collect data on socio-economic conditions of the fisherman in the selected area,
questionnaire preparation is very important. Before preparing the final questionnaire was
developed keeping in view the specific objective of the study. The prepared questionnaire
is shown in Appendix -A.
3.6. Collection of data
Data were collected by using two methods: (a) Questionnaire survey (b) Focus Group
Discussion. Data was collected by personal interviews through questionnaire form. The
fishermen were selected through random sampling and the total numbers were seventy
one. The collected data were also compared with other information received from UFO,
DFO, BFDC, NGO’s, local leaders and other owners. The selected parameters were as
follows:
• family size, education and culture related information;
• socio-economic and demographic characteristics of the fishermen;
• Fish marketing, yearly income, investment, and profit;
• identification of the occupation of the fishermen;
• various assets including agricultural land, livestock, poultry and fishing;
• availability and utilization of credit and
• health and sanitation;
Data involving cost-benefit analysis were also done. Data related to socio-economic
condition such as occupation types, educational status, age group and sex ratio, family
size and religious status of the fishermen were collected.
24
Plate 2. Showing the data collection from fisherman.
3.7. Data analysis
The Collected information from the survey was accumulated, grouped and interpreted
according to the objective as well as parameters. Some data contained numeric and some
contained narrative facts. The collected data were then edited, summarized and graphical
analyses were followed during this study.
Plate 3. Focus Group Discussion with fisherman in the Kaptai Lake.
25
3.8. A framework of activities
The following figure shows the activities done for the study
Topic selection
Area selection
Conceptualization
Questionnaire preparation
Sample size designing
Data collection
Primary data & field survey Secondary data & information
Accumulation of data and analysis
SWOT Analysis of Fishermen of the study area
Thesis Writing with Figures,Tables and Recommendations
Data presentation
Final report presentation
Fig. 1: Flow chart of work plan of the study.
26
3.9. SWOT Analysis of Kaptai Lake
SWOT stands on Strength, Weakness, Opportunity and Threats. Strength and Weakness
focus on the internal factors, opportunities and threats reflect the influences of the
external environment affecting the organization, community or activity. It is a well
renowned analytical tool for the researchers to represent the represent the present status
of any kind of activity as a summary that can also show the future trends of that activity.
Strengths
1. Fishermen are hardy working.
2. The place is suitable for pen culture
3. Accessible
4. Women are able to work outside the
home without social resistance.
Weakness
1. Non punctual
2. Loose of cohesion
3. Lack of initiative among men.
4. Lack of leadership and unity.
5. Lack of proper educational knowledge.
Opportunity
1. Facility of transport is very good.
2. Water is available in monsoon season.
3. Huge water bodies for fish culture such
as creek culture and pen culture.
Threats
1. High growth rate of population.
2. Youth have a tendency to take
various dangerous drugs.
3. Have a tendency for migration.
27
Fig. 2. Map of Rangamati District and location of study area.
28
Fig: 3.Map of Rangamati Sadar Upazila and location of study area.
29
Fig. 4.Map of Kaptai Lake and location of study area.
30
CHAPTER 4
RESULTS
4.1. Socio-economic condition of the fishermen
There were total 2257 fishermen who were found directly or indirectly involved on the
Lake fishing (BFDC, 2010). A total of 71 fishermen were interviewed from various
places like lake side, house, fishing place, market, and field etc. In seven areas at Kaptai
Lake in Rangamati district. Wide ranges of indicator were collected in various aspects of
socio-economic characteristics.
4.1.1. Socio-economic characteristics
The relevant data were collected on the socio-economic characteristics included sex, age
group, religion, marital status, family type, condition of house, educational status of the
fishermen, number of members in their family, school going children, school dropout
children, household assets, use of electricity, occupation, sanitation, agricultural land,
yearly income and expenditure per month, ownership of the domestic animals, source of
drinking water, medical treatment, dadon and loan etc.
4.1.2. Sex
The survey was conducted among the 71 fishermen usually involved the fishing of which
68 (96%) were male and 3 (4%) were female (Figure-5). Generally, women were
involved in household works and they could not afford to go out for fishing in a large
scale due to trafficking and others social problems. Where, male were free from those
barriers and engaged themselves in the lake fishing.
31
4.1.3. Age group
Figur- 6 shows that, 35%, 49%, 8%, 6%, 2% and 0% of fishermen were belonged to age
group in 21-30, 31-40, 41-50, 51-60 and 61-70 years respectively. Results showed that
the highest number of fishermen were between 31-40 age group indicating middle age
groups which was the dominant in fishing due to their physical strength.
Fig-6: Age group of fishermen
32
4.1.4. Religion
Religion can play a very important role in the socio-cultural and environmental life of
people and can act as a notable constraint modifies in social changes. Only 6 Muslim
fishermen were found during the survey out of 71 fishermen i.e. Muslim fishermen were
9%, Hindu fishermen were 21% and Buddhist fishermen were 70%. Other religions were
not found. Fig-7, illustrates that the Buddhist fishermen made up the major percentage of
the people of the study area. The dominance of Buddhists may be understood on the
ground of changing socio-economic structure, lack of employment opportunity and
realization of the Lake fishing potential as a source of income.
70.00%
21.00%
9.00%
B uddhist
Hindu
Muslim
F ig-7: R eligion s tatus of fis hermen
4.1.5. Marital status
The study was made to see the marital status of the fishermen. The study revealed that a
majority of the fishermen (91%) were married while the unmarried fishermen represented
9% of the population. Divorced and oppressed persons were not found in this survey.
33
4.1.6. Family
4.1.6.1. Family type
In rural Bangladesh, families are classified into two types: 1) Nuclear family- married
couples with children and 2) Joint family- group of people related by blood and/or by
law. Nuclear family consists of the members of two generations (parents and children)
and joint family with members of three or more generations.
4.1.6.2. Family condition
In the study area, it was found that 59% of the people lived with joint families and only
41% lived with nuclear family. The nuclear family was very popular because of getting
greater freedom of movement and economic opportunities, better dress, better education
and woman authority. The following family condition was found during study (Fig-9).
34
4.1.6.3. Family structure In the study area it was found that there were a total of 380 members in the 71 fishermen
family of which 199 were male (52%) and 181 were female (48%) (Fig-10). The average
sizes of households were 5.35 people where 2.80 were male and 2.55 were female
respectively. The survey revealed that the sex ratio (male: female) were 10:8.18.
35
4.1.6.4. No. of family members
Information on the family size of the fisherman was collected. The survey result revealed
that 59% were joint family. The average members of single family were 4.17 per
household. The average size of joint family was 6.22 per household.
4.1.7. Housing condition
4.1.7.1. House type
The housing condition is one kind of indicator of economic status. Attempts were made
to find out the condition of house of fishermen. In the study area, houses of the
community were of two main types: 1) Katcha- houses were made of bamboo and talli or
tin with mud flooring, 2) Semi pucca- made of wood or/and tin. The study revealed that
88% of housing structures were Katcha, 12% were semi pucca and pucca were not found
(Fig-11).
36
4.1.7.2. Use of electricity
About 40% fishermen had facility of electricity where 60% fishermen didn’t get facilities
to use electricity (Fig-12). It was also found that electricity facilities were comparatively
lower. The percentages of fishermen who had facilities of electricity were lower than the
fishermen with no facility.
4.1.8. Educational status
There was strong relationship between society and education. Human resource
development is largely a function of literacy and educational attainment. Amongst
fishermen, literacy and education attainments help to develop conceptual skill and also
facilitate the acquisition of technical skill which can have direct bearing on income
generation, expenditure and saving activities.
4.1.8.1. Education level of fishermen
The level of education in the study area was good. In the study area there was found 3%
H.S.C pass, 5% S.S.C pass, 17% had passed class V-X, and 59% had passed class I-V.
About 10% fishermen were can sign and 6% illiterate were found in this survey (Fig-13
37
Fig-13: Educational status of fishermen
4.1.8.2. School going and dropout children of fishermen
From the study, it was found that the number of school going children was 1.56 per
house. The study showed that number of school going boys were higher than that of girls.
It was also observed that about 57% were school dropout boy and 43% were girl.
38
4.1.8.3 Causes of school dropout
The main causes that were found is given bellow-
• Due to illiteracy
• Due to unconsciousness of family members
• Some people have economic problem
• Some children are involved in income
• Social or other problems such as some tinager boy like girls but got married, so
that they were not interested to go to school.
4.2. Occupation
Occupation is defined as an activity that the people pursue for earning their living. As the
survey focused on the fishermen, fishing was obviously their main or primary occupation.
There were full time fishermen those solely depended on fishing for their livelihood.
In the surveyed area, 70% fishermen were involved solely in fishing, 7% in fishing with
agriculture and 23% in fishing with other profession (Fig-16)
39
Fig-16: Occupation of the fishermen
4.3. Assets
The major assets of the fishermen were agricultural lands, livestock’s, poultry, fishing
gears and traps etc. The findings are discussed in this section.
4.3.1. Agricultural land ownership
During the survey it was found that how much agricultural land was owned by the
fishermen. Agricultural land is one of the most productive assets of them who lived in the
villages. It was found that the highest number of fishermen 50% had below 50 decimal
lands, while 47% fishermen had no land and 3% fishermen had above 50 decimal lands.
40
Fig-17: Agricultural land ownership of fishermen
4.3.1. Poultry and livestock
The study showed an encouraging picture regarding ownership and rearing of livestock’s
and poultry by the fishermen community. The study was revealed that there were 45%
fishermen who had possessed cow/goat/hen/duck. About 8% fishermen had no animal
and poultry and 47% fishermen had found only cattle or poultry.
Fig-18: Poultry and livestock's of fishermen
41
4.4. Food and nutrition
4.4.1. Food item intake by the fishermen
Major food item of the fishermen were fish, meat, dal, egg and vegetables and are shown
in the figure-19. It was found that intake of fish was highest where as intake of meat was
lowest in a month. During fishing the fishermen keep some fish for themselves. In
addition, during selling some fishes were left over. For this fish intake was higher. The
survey was found that 55% people intake fish and others food items such as meat 5%,
vegetables 25%, dal 10% and egg 5% (Fig-19).
4.4.2. Number of meal per day
It was apparent from the present study that majority (75%) of people used to three times
meals daily. It was also apparent that, 18% took two meals per day and 7% took four
meals per day (Fig-20).
42
4.5. Health and sanitation
The health and sanitation condition of the fishermen were not so good. However the
relevant data for collecting information on health and sanitation included main source of
drinking water, sanitation practice of the fishermen and suffering of disease last year.
4.5.1. Main sources of drinking water
It was found that 72% of the fishermen used tube-well water for drinking, 17% of the
fishermen used well or indira water for drinking, 4% of the fishermen used ring-well
water for drinking and 7% found Lake or other sources.
43
4.5.2. Sanitation practice of the fishermen
It was observed that the fishermen sanitary conditions were good. Types of toilet are
used: 1) katcha toilet-made of bamboo fencing with leaf and inadequate drainage
disposal, 2) sanitary latrines, 3) open field and 4) open whole. Most of the people about
(68%) are used sanitary latrines, rest of the 28% used katcha toilet, 1% open field and 3%
open hole. Rests were used katcha, sanitary, open field and open hole latrines. Sanitation
facilities are shown in the Fig-22 below.
44
4.5.3. Suffering diseases during last year
About 85% of the fishermen did not suffered with different types of diseases including
Pneumatic fever, Dysentery, Jaundice, Malnutrition, Gastric, Diarrhoea, fever etc. for
unhygienic environment where they live. It was also found that 15% fishermen did not
suffer by any types of diseases last year (Fig-23) which was near about one fourth of the
total fishermen.
45
4.5.4. Nature of treatment
Information was collected on the extent of nature of treatment of fishermen. The
fishermen availed themselves of treatment facilities like services from allopathic,
homeopathic, kabiraji and others. It was found that about 70% of fishermen took
allopathic, 20% homeopathic, 7% kabiraji and 3% other treatment (Fig-24). The study
revealed that most of the fishermen were careful about their health.
70%
20%
7%3%
0%
10%
20%
30%
40%
50%
60%
70%
80%
Allopathic Homeopathic K abiraji Other
Per
cen
tag
e (%
)
Types of treatment
Fig-24: Types of treatment
4.6. Marketing system
Kaptai reservoir is surrounded by high hills and there were only two (Chittagong-
Rangamati and the Chittagong- Kaptai) landing points of the reservoir. Hence, BFDC
established two fish landing centers. One at Rangamati and other at Kaptai for royalty
collection and for the management of the lake. In the Kaptai reservoir fisheries, there are
relatively complicated marketing channels (Figure 4.6).
The fishermen operate in different fishing area usually sells their catch to the commission
agent or the fish traders or to the local retaliates and never come to the landing centers.
There are about more than 180 fish traders engaged directly or indirectly for marketing of
46
such commodities although all are not enlisted officially to BFDC by taking licenses. At
the landing center, fish traders first settle the royalty with the BFDC and again sell or
transport the fish to different city markets.
Some opportunistic commission agents are also engaged at different fishing sites. These
agents purchase fish from the fishermen sell it to the agents of master traders. But the
fishermen who receive dadon have to sell their catch to the selected agents of the fish
trader. These agents also disburser of ice, drums for holding fish and other fishing related
information to the fishermen. The master traders carry fish to the city markets. The
BFDC portion sends to preservation plants and then sold to the wholesalers and retailers.
As such catches are handled by at least two three intermediates before they reach the
consumer. The BFDC also exports the fishes of their portion to abroad. There is no fixed
price for fish; it varies within local and wholesale markets. Around the reservoir, the fish
traders or commission agents fix the price of fish at low rate as possible. The fishers of
Kaptai reservoir usually maintain three marketing channels for selling their commodities.
These are any fish dealer, specific fish traders agent and directly to the consumer. Usually
those fishers obtain credit from the fish trader (middlemen) in turn, have an unwritten
obligation to sell all the daily catch to them at prevailing prices.
The BFDC collects revenue from fish traders giving licenses at the start of the fishing
season in catch year. In addition, BFDC collects royalties on total fish landings from the
fish traders. The royalties are collected in kind (kg of fish) for the high- priced, large
fishes and in cash (Bangladesh Taka -1) for low –priced, small sized fishes. The average
share of the BFDC ranges from 33.3% to 40% depending on species and total landing.
Usually they collect a higher percentage of royalty from the high-priced and larger fishes.
This system seems to be highly impractical and exploitative of the fishermen and fish
traders.
47
Fig 4.6. Fish Marketing Channel of Kaptai Reservoir
Local Retailers Agents of Fish Traders
Local Consumers Fishers
Commission Agents
BFDC Pontoon
Export Whole Sale
Retailers
Consumers
48
4.7. Income
4.7.1. Income and living standard
The income conditions of the fishermen were not so good. The only source of income of
fishermen is selling fish in the market and other place. There are very limited options for
non-fishery related activities such as day labor in agricultural field, wall painter, and
small trade (shops keepers) work. From the interviews, it was found that the highest
income of the fishermen from selling fish was Tk. 180/day and the lowest income Tk.
120/day. The average was found Tk. 150/day. Moreover, every year many people are
getting involved in fishing as a seasonal or part time occupation. As a result, fishing
pressure is continuously increasing in the Lake. There are also effects of climate changes.
4.7.2. Monthly income
The survey results revealed that maximum fishermen sell their fish product, use their
funds for household and others fish use for their own consumption. Monthly average
income in this study area was found around Tk. 3500-4000 per head.
4.7.3. Yearly income
The study showed that 60% fishermen yearly income between Tk. 30000-50000; 25%
fishermen yearly income between Tk. 20000-30000; 10% fishermen yearly income below
Tk. 10000 and 5% fishermen yearly income above Tk. 50000 (Fig-25).
49
Fig-25: Yearly income status of fishermen
4.8. Economic condition
Economic condition of the villagers was not so good. Maximum of the villagers had the
ability to take meals three times a day. The villagers mainly invested their money for
vegetables production, trade (shop keeper), farming (poultry, cattle), jums cultivation and
a few for dairies. As they didn’t have sufficient capital, they had to borrow for
investment. The sources of borrowing are NGO’s, Grameen bank, moneylenders and
sometimes from Krishi bank or businessmen.
4.8.1. Money borrowing
In survey, it was found that 50% of the fishermen borrowed money from the NGO’s,
20% from relatives, 20% moneylenders, 4% banks and 6% from neighbors (Appendix-
A). Maximum fishermen borrowed money from the NGO’s.
4.8.2. Purpose of borrowing money
During survey, it was found that the fishermen borrowed 25.35%, 19.72%, 21.12%,
15.49%, 7.04%, 5.64% and 5.64% money for agriculture, irrigation, poultry, food,
medical, marriage and business respectively (Appendix- A)
50
4.9. List of fish species available in Kaptai Lake
SI.
No
Fish species Scientific Name Remarks
01 Rui Labeo rohita Common
02 Catla Catla catla Common
03 Mrigal Cirrhinus cirrhosus Common
04 Calbaush Labeo calbasu Common
05 Mohashol Tor tor Rear
06 Chital Notopterus chitala Rear
07 Bata Labeo bata Rear
08 Sorputi Puntius sorana Abundant
09 Rajputi Puntius sophore Common
10 Punti Puntius spp. Common
11 Carpio Cyprinus carpio Common
12 Silver carp Hypophthalmichthys molitrix Common
13 Grass carp Ctenopharyangodon idella Common
14 Ghonia Labeo gonius Rear
15 Boal Wallago attu Common
16 Air Arichthys aor Common
17 Gojar Channa marulius Rear
18 Shol Channa striatus Common
19 Taki Channa punctatus Common
51
SI. No
Fish species Scientific Name Remarks
21 Magur Clarius batrachus Common
22 Koi Anbas testudineus Common
23 Foli Notopterus notopterus Rear
24 Poa Johnius coitor Abundant
25 Baim Mastacembelus spp. Rear
26 Kakila Xenentodon cacila Rear
27 Kechki Corica soborna Common
28 Gura moilla Amblypharyangodon mola Rear
29 Chapila Gudusia spp. Common
30 Tengra Mystus cavasius Rear
31 Bacha Eutropiichthus vacha Rear
32 Faisha Setipinna phasa Rear
33 Kata milla Rohtee cotio Common
34 Pabda Ompok pabda Rear
35 Bashpata Oxygaster gora/ bacaiola Rear
36 Kajoli Ailia coila Rear
37 Chella Salmostoma spp. Common
38 Chanda Chanda spp. Common
39 Telapia Oreochromis spp. Common
40 Batashi Pserdeurtropius athernoides Rear
52
CHAPTER 5
DISCUSSION
The study was conducted to find out the present status of socio-economic condition of the
fishermen concerned in the region. As mentioned before, during the study seven areas
were randomly selected from Kaptai Lake. Seventy one households were randomly
collected. A household has been identified as one who has catch fish in the Kaptai Lake.
Wide ranges of data selected from the study for analysis of the socio-economic condition
of fishermen. The background of the study was before 1960-61 when people based on the
cultivation of agricultural product and another is after 1960-61 when people substitute
their income earning activities in fishing as a result of water logging problem.
It was observed that the highest numbers of the people age were 31 to 40 (49%) and
lowest (2%) were above 61. It indicates that the middle age group to be involved. Ahmed
(1996) in Tangail and Ahmed (1999) in coastal region reported (66%) and (70%) under
40 years age respectively. The study is slightly related with present study.
In the study area, the majority of fisherman was Buddhist (70%), Hindu 21% and
Muslims 9%. The study of Chantarasri (1994) and Sarker (1997) in Sundarbans Reserve
Forest also stated that most fishermen were Muslim. Ahamed (1999) studied in coastal
area and showed that majority of fishermen were Muslim (68%). Hindu fishermen were
found at (32%) at Sundarban (Ahamed, 1999). This study is not support the present
study. Ahamed (1996) while conducting similar studied in the Tangail District finds
Hindu fishermen at (57%). So, this study is not related with the present study.
From the study it was found that majority of people of the study were married (91%) and
9% were unmarried. Similar studies were found Ahamed (1996) in Tangail, Mannu
(1999) in Kuakata and Shamima (2000) in Gallamari observed married fishermen were
(94%), (92%) and (70%) respectively. Momotaz (2009) studied showed on the socio-
economic condition of small indigenous species beneficiaries at three areas showed that
53
(84%) fishermen were married and rest unmarried (16%). Hossain (2009) studied on the
socio-economic condition of the fish farmers in Jessore District showed that (68%)
fishermen were married and rest were (32%) unmarried. So the present study is more or
less related with those studies.
In the study of Kaptai Lake, it was found that fishermen (59%) lived in joint families and
only 41% lived with nuclear family. The average members of single family were 4.17 per
household and the average size of joint family was 6.22 per household. The average
family members were lower than the national average of 5.6 people per house in case of
single family. These results were similar to Rokanuzzaman (2004) and Mursheduzzaman
(2007). The family size of the fishermen varied from 3 to 10 with an average of 6.43 as
reported by Islam (2007) and Pazhani and Isabella (2008).
BBS classifies literate persons as those who can write a letter in any language. In the
study area there was found 3% H.S.C pass, (5%) S.S.C pass, (17%) had passed class V-
X, and (59%) had passed class I-V. About 10% fishermen were can sign and 6%
illiterate. Ahamed (1996) in Tangail found literacy rates at (23%) and (69%) respectively.
It was observed that( 88%) of housing structures were Katcha and 12% were semi pucca.
The construction materials were roof, bamboo, tin and mud. Shamima (2000) in
Gallamary fishing community reported most of the fishermen’s floor materials (94%)
were Katcha. CPP (1996) reports that (89.23%) roof materials of the fishermen houses
were made of tin. Ahamed (1999) reports that the housing conditions of the fishermen
were poor and their house made of mud and one kind of weed leaves. So, the present
study similar to those studies.
In study area fishermen (40%) had facility of electricity and 60% fishermen didn’t get
facilities to use electricity. Shamima (2000) reported that (20%) used electricity in
Gallamary fishing community, Khulna. Momotaz (2009) studies showed that (90%)
fishermen had facility of electricity and (10%) fishermen didn’t get facilities to use
54
electricity. Hossain (2009) studies showed that (95%) fishermen had facility of electricity
and (5%) fishermen didn’t get facilities to use electricity. So, the present study
completely different to those studies.
Ahamed (1999) was found about (34%) fishermen depending on farming as subsidiary
occupation in Tangail. In the present study area maximum area of fishermen had below
50 decimal. It was found that the highest number of fishermen (50%) had below 50
decimal lands, while 47% fishermen had no lands and 3% fishermen had above 50
decimal lands. Momotaz (2009) was found that the highest number of fishermen (60%)
had above 50 decimal lands. So, this result is different from present result.
The present study was revealed that there were 45% fishermen who had possessed
cow/goat/hen/duck. About 8% fishermen had no animal and poultry and 47% fishermen
had found only cattle or poultry.
The study area was found that 72% of the fishermen used tube-well water for drinking,
17% of the fishermen used well or indira water for drinking, (4%)of the fishermen used
ring-well water for drinking and 7% found Kaptai Lake or others sources. Ahmed, (1999)
mentioned that most farmers used pond water due to lack of tube-well in coastal area.
This result is different from present result.
Most of the people about 68% are used sanitary latrines, rest of the 28% used katcha
toilet, (1%) open field and 3% open whole. Rests were used Katcha, Sanitary, open field
and open whole latrines. Another study conducted by CPP (1996) in Tangail reported that
(4 %) farmer’s household used no latrines.
The study showed that monthly average income in this study area was found around Tk.
3500-4000 per head and (60%) fishermen yearly income between Tk. 30000-50000;
(25%) fishermen yearly income between Tk. 20000-30000; (10%) fishermen yearly
income below Tk. 10000 and (5%) fishermen yearly income above Tk. 50000. These
55
results were more or less similar to the findings of Mazid, et al. (2007), Hossain (2008)
and Haque (2008).
Fishermen villages are mostly located in inaccessible areas, where there is little
communication and developmental or social impact. There is no denying the fact that
fishermen and fishing community as a whole the poorest and most disadvantaged group
of Bangladesh. They have no other activities except fishing, which cannot be carried out
throughout the year and in idle periods, they lack alternative employment opportunities.
Their socio-economic development is negligible. Hence it is essential to know the
livelihood status of fishermen. Fishermen suffered many problems in this study area. So
there is a necessary to manage and proper guideline for the proper use of resources by
community people to ensure their livelihood pattern.
PROBLEMS AND RECOMMENDATIONS
The following problems have been identified by asking the relevant questions to the
fishermen-
• Lack of initiatives among fishermen
• Lack of awareness among fishermen
• Lack of leadership and unity, particularly in challenging situation
• Lack of boat and gears
• Loose social cohesion
• Reduce bio-diversity
• Transportation problems
• Insufficient medical facilities
• Inadequate training facilities for fishermen
• The fishing community has no control over the market.
56
The following Recommendations could be considered in order to overcome the existing problems-
• Fishing regulations should be strictly implemented
• Establishing a single reservoir fishery management unit a joint venture of the
Fisheries Research Institute (FRI) and Bangladesh Fisheries Development
Corporation (BFDC)
• In breeding session Govt. should make sanctuary
• Peak spawning run and egg deposition period should be determined to find out the
exact closed seasons.
• Credit schemes from commercial and rural bank in co-operation with the
extension service of Fisheries Department might be an alternative solution to
reduce the high rate of interest and proper training provide to the fishermen by GO
and NGO’s.
• Reservoir management authorities, local administration, law enforcing agencies
and research organizations should come forward unitedly to formulate and
integrated policy to successfully manage the national resource through harvesting
of maximum sustainable yield (MSY) and generating hydro-electricity.
57
CHAPTER 6
SUMMARY AND CONCLUSION
A field study was conducted on the socio-economic conditions of fishermen in Kaptai
lake of Rangamati District. The study was carried out for a period of 16 weeks with the
objectives to know the socio-economic condition of involved fishermen and find out
some possible suggestions to uplift the livelihood status of local fishermen. The
collection of data was done by survey method using well structured questionnaires, PRA
and interviewing with fishermen.
Socio-economic condition of tribal fishermen communities were presented in terms of ,
age group, religion, marital status, family type, condition of house, educational status of
the fishermen, number of members in their family, school going children, school dropout
children, household assets, use of electricity, occupation, sanitation, agricultural land,
yearly income and expenditure per month, ownership of the domestic animals, source of
drinking water, medical treatment, dadon and loan etc.
In the present investigation, it was found that the highest (49 %) of fishermen were
between 31-40 age group indicating middle age groups which was the dominant in
fishing due to their physical strength. The Buddhist was featuring as the absolute majority
of the fishermen. About 70 % and 21 % fishermen were the Buddhist and Hindus
respectively.
Regarding the educational level 59% of fishermen were educated upto primary level, 6%
were illiterate and 3% were educated only higher secondary level. The houses of the
fishermen were Katcha (70%) and Semi-pacca (30%). Average annual incomes of
majority of fishermen were found ranged from 30000 to 50000 (6 %).
For medical treatment they were mainly dependent on allopathic and homeopathic
doctors. About 70% of the fishermen had the opportunity to receive treatment from
58
allopathic doctor or MBBS degree holder. Result of the present study revealed that socio-
economic status of tribal fishermen was satisfactory.
The fishers of Kaptai reservoir usually maintain three marketing channels for selling their
commodities. These are any fish dealer, specific fish traders agent and directly to the
consumer. Usually those fishers obtain credit from the fish trader (middlemen) in turn,
have an unwritten obligation to sell all the daily catch to them at prevailing prices.
There is a huge scope of fishermen and fish farmers in south-east region of Bangladesh.
Kaptai Lake has the vast area which is used as, pen culture, creek culture and capture
fishery as well as housing. But before 1960-61 when people based on the cultivation of
agricultural product and another is after 1960-61 when people substitute their income
earning activities in fishing as a result of water logging problem. After connection to the
river, the vast area of Kaptai Lake was raised by siltation. As a result, from 1960-61 the
fishing is gradually increasing up to now. There are found two types of culture system
like pen culture and creek culture. Some of the fish farmers practiced pen culture and
very few number of farmers practiced creek culture. Because most of the land of the
study area are in under water all the year. In Rangamati District there are many fishermen
involved fishing in the Kaptai Lake. They are live with hand to mouth and lower socio-
economic status. Day by day fishermen socio-economic status increasing due to
improving of their educational level. Government and NGO’s there interventions are
therefore very important particularly in the form of education and health services, micro-
credit, non-formal education provision. As Bangladesh is a poor country, so we should
utilize our lands and water resources in maximum level to produce maximum output from
this culture system so that our poor farmers can be benefited. Government should take
necessary steps to improve the socio-economic conditions of fishermen.
59
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APPENDIX A
Questionnaire
TITLE: SOCIO-ECONOMIC CONDITIONS OF
FISHERMEN IN KAPTAI LAKE AREA
Information on socio-economic condition of fishermen
1. Date of interview:
2. Place/ village of interview: Lake side Field
Resp /residence Other Place
3. Name of the fishermen:
4. Fishermen age:
5. Fishermen father/ husband name:
6. Fishermen address
A.Village: B. Union: C.Upazila:
7. Fishermen sex(male-1, female-2): Male Female
8. Fishermen religion (Boudhist-1, Hindus-1, Muslims-2)
9. Marital status (Married-1, Unmarried-2)
10. Fishermen education (Illiterate-1, Can sign-2, Class (i-v)-3, Class (v-x)-4, S.S.C-
pass-5, H.S.C- pass-6)
11. Family type : Nuclear Joint
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12. House holds members: Male Female
13. School going children: Boys Girls Total
14. School dropouts: Boys Girls Total
15. Causes of school dropout children of fishermen (Illiteracy-1, Unconsciousness-2,
Economic problem-3, Involved in income-4, Social/Other problem-5)
16. Condition of living house (katcha-1, semi pacca-2)
17. Approximate value of livestock: Cow Goat Hen
Duck No Asset
18. Use of electricity (yes -1, no-2):
19. Main occupation :( Only fishing, Agricultural work, Business, Daily labor, Students,
Others)
20. Own agricultural land (decimal): (No land-1, <50 decimal-2, >50 decimal-3)
21. Monthly income (Tk.):
22. Yearly income (Tk.): (<10000-1, 20000-30000-2, 30000-50000-4, >50000-5)
23. Suffering disease last year (Yes-1, No-2)
24. Family expenditure:
25. Main source of drinking water: Ring well Tubewell
Well/Indira Kaptai Lake/Other sources
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26. Place for defection: Katcha Sanitary Open hole Open
field
27. Type of treatment you take: Allopathic Homeopathic Kabiraji
Others
28. Food item intake by fishermen: (Fish-1, Meat-2, Vegetables-3, Dal-4, Egg-5)
29. Number of meal per day: (4 meal-1,3 meal-2, 2 meal-3)
30. Money borrowing: (NGO’s-1, Relatives-2, Moneylenders-3, Banks-4, Neighbors-
5)
31. SWOT Analysis of Kaptai Lake
32. Opinion on fishing:
Signature of the interviewer
