Two-Month Hilsa Fishing Ban Commences Tonight

During this period, the extraction, transportation, purchase, sale, and storage of fish will be strictly prohibited across a 100-kilometer stretch, extending from Shatnol in Matlab North to Char Bhairabi in Haimchar.

To ensure the success of the initiative, the Upazila administration, Department of Fisheries, Naval Police, Coast Guard, and the Navy will conduct regular patrols. Violators face penalties ranging from one to two years of imprisonment, a fine of 5,000 BDT, or both. Meanwhile, to support affected fishermen, the distribution of VGF (Vulnerable Group Feeding) rice has commenced, providing 160 kg of rice in four installments to each of the 9,100 registered fishermen in Matlab North Upazila.

Experts from the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute emphasize that ensuring the social and financial security of the fishing community is as crucial as administrative vigilance in protecting this national resource. The Upazila Task Force Committee and the Fisheries Department have warned that no leniency will be shown regarding the harvesting of juvenile Hilsa, and strict legal action will be coordinated through local representatives.