Chattogram:The Chattogram Fishery Ghat has seen a resurgence of activity following the conclusion of a 22-day fishing ban in the Bay of Bengal. The end of the prohibition has prompted hundreds of fishing trawlers to return to sea, reviving the bustling environment at the Fishery Ghat near Kotwali Police Station as they come back loaded with marine harvests.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the initial catches, however, have been lower than anticipated, causing concern among trawler owners about recouping their operational expenditures. As the boats docked, workers were engaged in unloading, sorting, and packing the fish in ice, while wholesalers and commission agents gathered to purchase the seafood for distribution to markets nationwide.
The modest catches have left many trawler owners and crew members anxious about financial recovery after the idle period during the ban. Saluddin, a commission agent at the Fishery Ghat, highlighted the significant investment required for preparing a trawler for a fishing expedition, including costs for fuel, ice, food supplies, net maintenance, and wages. The first catches have not met expectations, adding strain to their financial burdens.
Nur Mohammad, another commission agent, noted that despite the low initial yields, the resumption of fishing has injected momentum into the local economy. Post-auction, fish are packed in insulated boxes and transported to major markets such as Dhaka.
Jashim Uddin, leader of the local Fishermen Cooperative Society, remarked that the revival of fishing activities has also rejuvenated various related sectors, such as ice and packaging production, transportation, and daily-wage work.
Moshiur Rahman, assistant director of Marine Fisheries in Chattogram, explained that the government imposed the ban from October 8 to 29 to protect mother Hilsa and juvenile Hilsa during their spawning season, which is crucial for the long-term sustainability and improvement of marine fisheries. Despite the slow start, fishermen are optimistic and preparing for subsequent trips, aiming for improved outcomes and financial recovery.