Dhaka: Fishermen along the Bhola coast have started catching Hilsa in the rivers since late last night, following the end of the 22-day ban aimed at protecting the 'mother' Hilsa. The fishery ghats, shops, and markets have been bustling since this morning. During a visit to Tulatuli Ghat in Meghnapar, Bhola Sadar, the correspondent observed a lively scene of buying and selling Hilsa, with fishermen, traders, buyers, sellers, and wholesalers all actively engaged. The fishery ghats were filled with the clamor of people involved in the Hilsa trade.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, fishermen Kabir Majhi, Salauddin, and Miraj Majhi expressed satisfaction with the night's catch, mentioning that continued success would help repay their 22-day loans. Jamaluddin, a trader at Naoi Ghat, noted that while the first day saw a fair catch, more Hilsa are expected in the coming days. Badsha Mia, president of the Arat Malik Samiti of Purba Ilisha Fishery Ghat, reported that a large number of mother Hilsa have laid eggs, leading to an abundant supply in the Meghna-Tetulia and adjacent tributaries. Abul Hashem, former president of the Arat Malik Samiti of Samraj Fisheries Landing Center, confirmed that a significant number of Hilsa are being caught in both the river and the sea.
Bhola District Fisheries Officer Md. Iqbal Hossain told BSS that the ban, which began on October 4 to boost Hilsa production, ended at midnight on October 25. The target for Hilsa production in the district this year is 192,000 metric tons, and the government expects to achieve this goal. The ban was enforced in the Meghna, Tentulia, Kalabadar, Betua, and Ilisha rivers of Bhola to ensure the safe reproduction and growth of Hilsa, and it concluded at midnight on October 25.
The Fisheries Department stated that 171,000 registered fishermen are actively fishing in the Meghna, Kalabadar, Tentulia, and Ilisha rivers across seven upazilas of Bhola. Additionally, approximately 250,000 fishermen earn their livelihood through private fishing.