Jhalakathi:The government has initiated the distribution of rice under the Vulnerable Group Feeding (VGF) programme to assist 4,200 fishermen families affected by the 22-day ban on hilsa fishing. This measure aims to support families while ensuring the safe spawning of mother hilsa.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the ban, which prohibits fishing, transportation, storage, and marketing of hilsa, will be in effect from October 8 to October 29. The initiative is designed to protect the breeding season of this vital fish species.
The District Fisheries Department is distributing 105 metric tonnes of VGF rice to registered fishermen families across Jhalakathi's four upazilas. Each family will receive 25 kilograms of rice. The beneficiaries include 1,000 families in Jhalakathi Sadar, 1,000 in Nalchity, 1,200 in Rajapur, and 1,000 in Kathalia upazilas.
Rice distribution commenced at various union parishads in Rajapur on Tuesday morning. Officials have urged fishermen to adhere to the fishing ban and support efforts to safeguard the mother hilsa during its breeding period.
To enforce the ban, regular patrols will be conducted in the district’s rivers and waterways, ensuring compliance with restrictions on catching hilsa and other fish during this critical time.