‘Meghna Hilsa Tastier Than Padma’s,’ Says Water Resources Minister

BNP Joint Secretary General and Water Resources Minister Shahid Uddin Chowdhury Anne stated on Saturday that hilsa from the Meghna River is superior in taste and value to that of the Padma.

"Meghna hilsa is more expensive and flavorful," Minister Anne remarked. "While many in Dhaka prefer Padma hilsa, the real quality lies in the Meghna. Hilsa is our national resource, and the government is committed to its protection."

The Minister was speaking as the chief guest at a food distribution program for fishermen in Lakshmipur. The initiative supports fishers during the March-April fishing ban in the Hilsa Sanctuary, a key part of the "Hilsa Resource Development and Management Project."

Minister Annie highlighted the synergy between the Ministry of Water Resources and the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock. He noted that the government is providing Tk 3,000 worth of food aid to each fisherman to offset the impact of the two-month ban.

Addressing the fishing community, he urged, "Please refrain from fishing for these two months. Use this time to rest, repair your boats, and mend your nets to prepare for the upcoming season."

The event, held at the Lakshmipur Zilla Parishad premises, featured a welcome speech by Abul Khair Bhuiyan, MP (Lakshmipur-2). Special guests included State Minister for Fisheries and Livestock Sultan Salauddin Tuku, Md. Shahadat Hossain Selim (MP, Lakshmipur-1), Deputy Commissioner Mehedi Hasan, and Superintendent of Police Abu Tarek.

The program was presided over by Shahabuddin Sabu, District BNP Member Secretary and District Council Administrator.