Accra:The Bangladesh Coast Guard has intensified its operations to safeguard brood hilsa during a government-imposed fishing ban intended to ensure the safe spawning and reproduction of the country's national fish. This comprehensive crackdown includes enhanced surveillance and enforcement across coastal areas, rivers, and territorial waters.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the 22-day nationwide ban commenced on October 8 and will continue until October 29. During this period, activities such as catching, transporting, storing, marketing, and buying or selling hilsa are strictly prohibited. Coast Guard stations and outposts across four zones are actively conducting patrols and special drives to protect hilsa breeding grounds.
Coast Guard officials report that conservation efforts have been ramped up in 54 upazilas across 16 districts. Key areas of focus include Chandpur, Shariatpur, Madaripur, Munshiganj, Barishal, Patuakhali, Bhola, Pirojpur, Jhalakathi, Sharan Khola and Bogi in Bagerhat, the Chattogram outer anchorage, and Raipur and Kamalnagar in Lakshmipur. To date, the Coast Guard has confiscated over 8 million metres of fishing nets, 155 kilograms of hilsa, and 14 boats. Additionally, 24 individuals have been apprehended for violations.
The seized nets were destroyed, the confiscated hilsa distributed to local orphanages, and the boats handed over to fisheries officials. The Coast Guard is maintaining vigilance to prevent foreign fishing trawlers from illegally entering Bangladesh's waters. Challenges such as operating in remote areas at night and curbing the use of prohibited nets have led to strengthened patrols and the use of modern technology.
In tandem with enforcement, the Coast Guard is running awareness campaigns to encourage compliance with the ban, distributing leaflets, and holding public meetings. Authorities highlight that safeguarding hilsa during its breeding season is expected to bolster future production and benefit fishing communities.
As part of the government's humanitarian assistance, rice is being allocated to 646,290 fishing families across 168 upazilas in 38 districts, with each family receiving 25 kilograms during the ban. Fisherman Burhan Uddin from Bhola commended the restriction for supporting hilsa reproduction and the government's food assistance for aiding families during this period.
Professor Mohammad Mamun Chowdhury of Dhaka University suggested extending the ban to a month to prevent egg-bearing hilsa from being caught post-restriction. He lauded the Coast Guard's efforts, emphasizing the importance of continued public cooperation in protecting hilsa and sustaining the blue economy.
The Coast Guard urges the public to report any violations by calling its emergency service number, 16111, highlighting that the success of the conservation drive relies on the collective efforts of law enforcement and the cooperation of fishers and traders.