Munshiganj: Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has called upon fishing net traders and manufacturers to actively combat the production of 'Current Jal', a type of fishing net that poses a threat to the country's aquatic life.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, Farida emphasized that resolving the issue of current net production cannot solely rely on raids or punitive measures. Instead, she highlighted the importance of stakeholders, including net traders and factory owners, taking proactive steps to address the problem. Farida delivered this message during a views-exchanging meeting held at the Munshiganj Deputy Commissioner's office, which included participation from district administration, law enforcement agencies, fisheries department officials, net manufacturers, and fishermen.
Farida pointed out that fishermen prefer current nets due to their affordability, lightweight nature, and ease of transportation. However, these nets indiscriminately capture all types of fish, including small and large ones, and lack any control over net size, making them detrimental to marine life. She stressed the necessity of consulting with fisheries experts to establish appropriate net size regulations.
Highlighting the global reputation of Bangladesh's hilsa fish, Farida expressed concern over the use of current nets to catch jatka, or immature hilsa, underscoring the damage caused to the species. She urged for increased awareness and action against the production and marketing of illegal current nets within the country.
The meeting was presided over by Munshiganj Deputy Commissioner Fatema Tul Zannat, with Dhaka Divisional Commissioner Sharf Uddin Ahmed Choudhury attending as a special guest.