Two-Month Fishing Ban Begins in Bhola Hilsa Sanctuaries

Two-month government ban on all types of fishing, including Hilsa, takes effect across 190 km of the Meghna and Tetulia rivers in Bhola starting at midnight tonight (February 28). The restriction aims to boost Hilsa production by protecting juveniles during their peak growth period.

The ban covers two major sanctuaries: a 90-km stretch of the Meghna River from Char Ilisha to Char Piyal and a 100-km stretch of the Tetulia River from Char Beduria to Char Rustam. The restriction will remain in place until April 30.

The move impacts approximately 200,000 fishermen across seven upazilas. With Ramadan ongoing and Eid-ul-Fitr approaching, many fishing families have expressed deep anxiety over their livelihoods. Local fishermen, including Yunus and Firoz, noted that poor catches earlier this season have already left them in financial distress. They have urged the government to ensure immediate food assistance and requested a temporary halt to NGO loan installments during the ban.

District Fisheries Officer Mohammad Iqbal Hossain confirmed that 40 kg of VGF rice per month has been allocated for 90,200 registered families. "We aim to begin rice distribution within the first week of the campaign. Additionally, 13,600 fishermen will receive various food items," he stated.

According to department records, Char Fasson has the highest number of registered fishermen (44,311), followed by Daulatkhan (24,030) and Bhola Sadar (22,412). Authorities have completed all preparations, including awareness campaigns, to ensure the ban is strictly enforced.