Dhaka:The Bangladesh Navy has successfully concluded its 22-day 'Mother Hilsa Conservation Drive-2026', aimed at safeguarding hilsa breeding during the government-imposed fishing ban. Throughout the operation, the Navy seized 570 kilograms of illegally captured mother hilsa, over 8.4 million meters of illegal fishing nets, 166 other prohibited nets, and four boats.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the drive was conducted under the 'In Aid to Civil Power' framework and concluded on Thursday, having started on October 8. The initiative coincided with the government's 22-day fishing ban designed to protect hilsa breeding and reproduction.
During the operation, the Navy carried out 212 operations, collecting fines totaling Tk 6,000, with the value of the seized items estimated at Tk 61.18 crore. Regular patrols and surveillance were conducted in nine districts using seven ships and contingents, ensuring compliance with the ban.
Round-the-clock monitoring was maintained in the deep sea through naval ships and maritime patrol aircraft to prevent illegal fishing activities. Conservation activities were also carried out in the sea, coastal areas, and inland rivers, focusing on major hilsa breeding grounds.
The operations were coordinated with local administrations, law enforcement agencies, the Bangladesh Coast Guard, river police, and the Department of Fisheries. Seized illegal nets were destroyed with local officials present, while juvenile hilsa (jatka) were donated to local orphanages.
Violators of the fishing ban and boats used in illegal activities were handed over to local authorities for legal action. The Navy also conducted awareness campaigns to promote adherence to the restrictions.
The Bangladesh Navy emphasized that such operations support uninterrupted hilsa breeding, contributing to increased production of the fish. With the ban lifted, fishermen can now resume regular activities, benefiting both their livelihoods and the sustainable management of fisheries resources.