Govt bans all fishing in Bay of Bengal for two months to boost stocks

The move aims to protect juvenile hilsa and boost the production of the national fish

The government has announced a 58-day ban on all types of fishing in the Bay of Bengal, effective from Apr 15, to ensure the sustainable growth of marine resources.

The Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock issued the directive on Monday, shortly before the commencement of “Jatka Preservation Week”, which aims to protect juvenile hilsa and boost the production of the national fish.

Fisheries and Livestock Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid disclosed the details during a press conference held at the ministry’s conference room.

"To make hilsa affordable and increase sustainable production, it is essential to protect Jatka and mother hilsa, strictly enforce fishing bans during breeding seasons, and manage sanctuaries effectively," the minister said.

Ahead of the sea-fishing ban, the government will observe Jatka Preservation Week from Tuesday until Apr 13.

The central inaugural ceremony is scheduled to take place in Chandpur Sadar on Tuesday.

The campaign will be observed across 20 hilsa-rich districts with different awareness programmes at the district and Upazila levels.

State Minister Sultan Salauddin Tuku, who was also in attendance, assured that the government would continue providing food and financial assistance to legitimate fishermen during the ban period.

He also issued a warning against illegal fishing.

"The government will not tolerate any irregularities. Legal action will be taken wherever violations of the fishing ban or conservation laws are found," Tuku added.