Two-month fishing ban imposed on six rivers, including Padma-Meghna

Authorities have imposed a two-month ban on fishing, including hilsa juveniles (jatka), in six rivers of Chandpur, including the Padma and Meghna, to protect fish stocks.

The restriction will came into effect after midnight on Saturday (February 28) and will continue through March and April.

During the ban, a total of 9,100 fishers in Motlob North Upazila will receive 160 tonnes of VGF rice in four installments. In return, fishers are expected to repair boats and nets.

Violators may face one to two years in prison, a fine of up to Tk 5,000, or both.

The Department of Fisheries, local administration, River Police, Coast Guard, and Navy will conduct regular patrols throughout the ban period.

Dr. Md Anisur Rahman, a hilsa researcher at the Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute, emphasised that protecting jatka requires both administrative vigilance and financial support for fishers.

Motlob North Upazila Executive Officer Mahmudah Kulsum Moni urged coordinated efforts to safeguard national resources and warned that legal action would be taken against those fishing during the ban.