Bhola:The Department of Fisheries has initiated a 22-day nationwide fishing ban to protect mother hilsa and ensure successful breeding, anticipating a significant rise in fish production in Bhola's rivers.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ban, effective today until October 29, prohibits the fishing, transport, storage, sale, purchase, and marketing of hilsa across designated waterways. During this period, registered fishermen will receive 25 kilograms of rice each as government assistance, and the Fisheries Department will conduct special operations to prevent illegal fishing activities.
Officials from the Bhola Fisheries Department have set a production target of 179,000 metric tonnes of hilsa by 2025. They believe the current conservation measures could lead to a substantial increase in production, playing a major role in meeting national demand. Annually, around 500,000 metric tonnes of hilsa are produced in Bangladesh's rivers.
Fishermen in Bhola have expressed concerns over the adequacy of the assistance provided. While they are prepared to comply with the ban, they argue that 25 kilograms of rice is insufficient for the 22-day period. They have requested additional food items, cash support, and a suspension of installment collections by NGOs and microfinance institutions.
Md Ershad Mia, general secretary of the Bhola Sadar Small Fishermen Association, has called for an increase in rice allocation to 50 kilograms per family and Taka 5,000 in cash for essential commodities. He also urged for measures against illegal fishing by Indian fishermen.
The district Fisheries Department reports there are 168,370 registered fishermen in Bhola, with 143,656 eligible for rice assistance. However, leaders claim about 150,000 additional fishermen are not registered and thus excluded from aid. Authorities are raising awareness through various campaigns to ensure compliance with the ban.
District Fisheries Officer Delwar Hossain stated that legal action would be taken against violators of the ban. The Fisheries Department, along with other agencies, will conduct operations in key rivers. Scientific research indicates peak breeding occurs in specific areas, and 7,134 square kilometers of breeding grounds will be closed to fishing during the ban.
The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock's notification on September 29 underscores the ban's importance in protecting hilsa during the breeding season, covering 20 districts, including Bhola. Authorities are optimistic that stringent enforcement and coordinated efforts will enhance future hilsa production.