Nepal’s First Fish Sanctuary Declared in Karnali River

Rajapur Municipality in Bardiya and Tikapur Municipality in Kailali have jointly declared the lower stretch of the Karnali River a fish sanctuary, the first of its kind in Nepal.

The initiative aims to conserve aquatic biodiversity and promote sustainable fish management. Spread over approximately 3.9 square kilometres, the sanctuary stretches from Tedhiya in Rajapur Municipality–3 and Chhediya of Tikapur–4 to Anarhawa of Tikapur–8.

Identified as an ecologically significant zone, the designated river section serves as a breeding, spawning and nursery habitat for indigenous fish species. The stretch also provides critical habitats for aquatic animals, including dolphins and gharials.

Tikapur Municipality Mayor Ramlal Dagaura Tharu said the initiative reflects collective responsibility for aquatic conservation, starting at the local level. “This is a historic step taken by the people of Rajapur and Tikapur to protect aquatic animals and biodiversity for future generations,” he said.

The declaration has been made in line with the Aquatic Animals Protection Act.

Rajapur Municipality Mayor Dipesh Tharu said the move marks the beginning of organised, coordinated and sustainable efforts to protect aquatic life.

The two municipalities issued a joint eight-point declaration. The sanctuary will be managed under a co-management model led by local governments, in partnership with river-dependent communities.

Community-based river segment management groups have been formed for monitoring, awareness-building and enforcement support.
These groups will work in coordination with division forest offices and concerned security agencies under municipal oversight.

Special emphasis has been placed on the meaningful participation of the river-dependent Sonaha and Tharu communities, whose livelihoods and cultural practices are closely linked to the Karnali River.

The initiative was advanced by WWF Nepal with technical and financial support through projects funded under the Darwin Initiative of the UK government.

It is being implemented in collaboration with the Government of Nepal, WWF Nepal and local partner organisations, including the Sonaha Development Society, Freed Kamalari Development Forum, Dolphin Conservation Centre and the Small Mammals Conservation and Research Foundation.

The sanctuary is expected to contribute to biodiversity conservation, food security, and the preservation of local livelihoods and cultural heritage.

“In these areas, fishing is not only the basis of livelihood of locals but it is linked to the cultural and religious identity,” said WWF Nepal Country Representative Dr Ghana Shyam Gurung. “When we protect fish, we also protect water. When we protect water, we are also protecting life. By doing this, we ensure our future.”

(With inputs from RSS)