Khulna:Thousands of fishermen are set to embark on their annual journey into the Bay of Bengal from October 30, marking the start of the five-month dry-fish season in the Sundarbans. This period will see them leaving their families behind to face challenging weather conditions and uncertain fish catches until April 30 of the following year.
According to Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha, the Forest Department has set a revenue target of Taka eight crore for this dry-fish season, an increase from the Taka 7.5 crore target in the previous fiscal year. The Special Response Battalion (SRB) and the Bangladesh Coast Guard (BCG) will collaborate to ensure the safety of fishermen and traders against threats such as piracy, extortion, and abduction.
Fishermen from Sutarkhali Union in Paikgachha upazila of Khulna, including Moinul Islam and 39 others, are preparing to head to sea in a fleet of five boats. Financial challenges are significant, with many borrowing Taka 15 lakh to Taka 20 lakh to fund their operations. The fishing community expresses concerns over declining fish stocks and maritime security, compounded by the presence of Indian fishing boats limiting their catch potential.
Local fishermen, such as Ashutosh Biswas, have noted a decrease in the variety and quantity of fish caught, raising concerns about the sustainability of their livelihood. Meanwhile, reports of new pirate groups organizing ahead of the season have heightened security concerns among the fishing community.
Forest Department officials, including Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, emphasize the importance of cooperation with security agencies to protect fishermen. They advise against venturing into deep waters alone and stress the need for fishermen to bring construction materials from home for temporary facilities, as the use of forest resources is prohibited.
Security measures are being strengthened with the deployment of SRB and Coast Guard forces, including intelligence surveillance and patrols. Fishermen and traders have been urged to report security threats through an emergency hotline to ensure a safer season.
The dry-fish industry, centered around Dublar Char, is crucial for the local economy, with nearly 80 percent of the country's dry-fish production originating from this region. The fishing sector remains vital to the coastal economy, providing significant contributions to domestic fish demand.
Source Bangladesh Sangbad Sangstha