Chandpur:The Bangladesh Navy has seized illegal fishing nets valued at nearly Taka 7 crore in the Chandpur region as part of its ongoing efforts to safeguard mother hilsa during their breeding season.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, a Navy contingent operating under the Commander of the Chattogram Naval Area carried out operations today across various locations including Anandabazar, Dashadi Khal, Shahar Mali, Lalpur, No. 3 Koila Ghat, Chandpur estuary, Gajir Tek, Miar Bazar, Kanudi, Amirabad, and adjacent areas. These operations led to the confiscation of nets used for illegal fishing activities that violate the government-imposed ban.
The illegal nets seized during the operations were destroyed in the presence of local administration and fisheries officials. Up to now, the Navy has confiscated 714,870 meters of illegal fishing nets, along with 22 additional nets, which collectively hold a market value of Taka 69,986,900.
The conservation drive for mother hilsa commenced on October 8 and is set to continue until October 29, 2026. During this period, activities such as catching, transporting, storing, buying, selling, and exchanging hilsa are strictly prohibited to protect the fish during their crucial breeding period.
The Navy's operations span coastal waters and inland rivers to promote the safe breeding and reproduction of hilsa, deter illegal fishing practices, and conserve the nation's aquatic resources.