National Policy Dialogue charts path forward for water management challenges in coastal polders of Bangladesh

Coastal polders in Bangladesh are crucial for the food security and livelihoods of millions. However, coastal farmers face significant challenges from climate change, including complex water management issues. To address these challenges, Water Management Groups were formed under the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB) to involve farmers and other local stakeholders. Unfortunately, many of these groups are currently inactive due to a lack of clear guidance from government agencies.

The poor functioning of these groups has led to inefficient water management and low agricultural productivity in the polders. A national dialogue is necessary to explore policy and institutional reforms that can ensure sustainable water resource management and community resilience in coastal polders. Strong water management organizations are essential for developing productive and resilient agrifood systems.

The National Policy Dialogue titled "Water Management Challenges in Coastal Polders of Bangladesh: Rethinking Institutions and Policies" was held in Dhaka, Bangladesh, on November 19, 2024. The dialogue aimed to disseminate findings and insights from field studies in Polder 34/2P and 43/2, engage stakeholders in addressing critical water management challenges, and advocate for necessary institutional reforms.

Under the CGIAR Initiative on Asian Mega-Deltas (AMD), the International Rice Research Institute (IRRI) hosted the dialogue in collaboration with the IDSS Institute of United International University. The dialogue brought together approximately 50 representatives from the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE), LGED, Soil Resource Development Institute (SRDI), Bangladesh Agricultural Research Council (BARC), Bangladesh Rice Research Institute (BRRI), CIMMYT, CIP, Bangladesh Agricultural Development Corporation (BADC), Water Management Groups (WMGs), Water Management Associations (WMAs), farmers, and other stakeholders.

Polders, large water catchments protected by dikes and sluice gates, were originally built to prevent flooding. They have become vital for agriculture in southern Bangladesh. However, the Bangladesh Water Development Board (BWDB), responsible for maintaining these polders, has faced challenges due to inadequate resources. As a result, the polders suffer from various water management, infrastructural, institutional, and governance issues, impacting the intended beneficiaries.

Water Management Groups, mandated under BWDB, lack necessary support. Inter-institutional coordination for effective water and agriculture management is also deficient. Despite the critical roles of the Department of Agricultural Extension (DAE) and the Department of Fisheries (DoF) in agriculture, they have limited authority over water management decisions, hindering effective water resource utilization and agricultural productivity.

Dr. Nazmun Nahar Karim, Executive Chairman of BARC, and Chief Guest at the National Policy Dialogue, commented, "We can assess the current situation of polders, including resource availability, infrastructure, and current needs. Based on this assessment, the Department of Agricultural Extension or the Department of Fisheries can take the lead in specific polders to promote sustainable agriculture."

Dr. Humnath Bhandari, IRRI Representative to Bangladesh and Chairperson of the Policy Dialogue, said, "Agriculture in coastal areas is crucial and requires effective water management to enhance productivity and resilience. Empowering and strengthening community-level water management groups is essential. Additionally, coordinated management among government agencies must be ensured to improve water management and promote sustainable agriculture."

Mr. Md. Zohirul Islam, Additional Director General of BWDB and Special Guest at the dialogue, stated, "Participatory Water Management can be made more inclusive by coordinating with other government agencies."

Dr. Ahmad Salahuddin, a Scientist from IRRI, emphasized the need for institutional reform in his keynote speech. He suggested that water management organizations formed by farmers should be central to these efforts, with active engagement from local government agencies. DAE should be empowered to lead in areas where agriculture is the primary activity, while the Department of Fisheries should take the lead in areas where fish farming is more dominant.

A farmer from Amtali, Abu Bakkar Siddiq, shared his perspective, "While we are moving towards agricultural modernization, climate change remains a significant challenge for Bangladesh. Our water management methods are still traditional, leading to water shortages during the dry season and waterlogging during the rainy season. No government agency seems to take responsibility for water management."

The discussions highlighted the need for a coordinated, multi-agency approach to address these challenges. Participants proposed empowering Water Management Organizations (WMOs) through increased support, resources, leadership, and policy support. The dialogue concluded with a commitment to holistic coordination among government offices and stakeholders, integrating efforts from BWDB, DAE, DoF, and BADC. It called for policy adjustments that prioritize agriculture, empower WMOs, and create long-term water management plans to ensure sustainable development in coastal regions.