Dhaka:The Bangladesh Air Force (BAF) has successfully completed a series of aerial surveillance missions across various regions of the country from October 8 to 29. These operations were part of the 'Mother Hilsa Conservation Drive-2026' aimed at protecting the breeding season of the national fish, Hilsa.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the surveillance missions were initiated by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock. The BAF helicopters conducted these operations over significant rivers and coastal areas, including Munshiganj, Madaripur, Shariatpur, Barishal, and Bhola, as well as Khulna, Bagerhat, Satkhira, and the Kutubdia region.
During the missions, fishing boats were detected in the rivers of Madaripur and Shariatpur. The aircrews used high-powered searchlights, known as Night Sun, to alert the vessels. These helicopters are equipped with advanced searchlights and night vision goggles (NVGs) to effectively monitor fishing activities, particularly in low-light conditions.
The BAF coordinated closely with field-level law enforcement agencies and Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock officials through air-to-ground communication systems. Special surveillance was also conducted over coastal regions through low-level flights as part of training missions from different air bases.
The missions were conducted under the 'In Aid to Civil Power' initiative, supporting the conservation of natural resources and national development. The ISPR noted that the BAF remains committed to environmental protection and will continue such activities in the national interest.