Rangamati: The local administration has announced a three-month fishing ban on Kaptai Lake starting from April 24. The measure aims to facilitate safe breeding, reproduction, and natural growth of fish during this critical period.
According to United News of Bangladesh, the decision was made during a meeting at the Rangamati Deputy Commissioner’s office. The ban encompasses all fishing activities, as well as the transportation and marketing of fish from the lake, effective from midnight on April 24. Authorities have warned that strict actions will be taken against those who violate the ban.
Deputy Commissioner Najma Ashrafi chaired the meeting, which took place in the conference room of the DC office. It was also decided to raise awareness about the ban through announcements across roads and waterways. To enforce the ban, authorities will conduct mobile court drives around the lake to curb illegal fishing activities.
The Deputy Commissioner emphasized that the ban is crucial for the proper breeding and development of fish during the current season. To support those affected, government food assistance will be provided to registered fishermen reliant on the lake through VGF cards during the ban period.
Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) Commander Md Foyez Al Karim stated that while fishing in the lake will halt from midnight on April 24, fish landing at BFDC ghats will be permitted until 4:00pm on April 25. The release of fish fry into the lake is scheduled to commence on May 2, and temporary checkpoints will be established to prevent illegal fishing and transportation during the ban.