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Navy deployed to enforce hilsa fishing ban
Members of the Bangladesh Navy have been deployed across the sea, rivers, and coastal regions to enforce the ‘Maa Hilsa Conservation Campaign-2025’, which runs from October 4 to 25.
According to the Inter-Services Public Relations (ISPR), the Navy is operating under the mandate of “In Aid to Civil Power” to support the civil administration in ensuring the effective implementation of the fishing ban.
The aim is to curb illegal hilsa fishing, allow for safe spawning, and ensure long-term sustainability of the species.
A total of 17 Bangladesh Navy warships have been deployed in nine coastal and riverine districts as part of the campaign. In Chandpur, naval ships Dhansiri, Shaheed Farid, and BNDB Gangchil are patrolling key areas. In Cox’s Bazar, the deployment includes Atandra, Shaheed Mohibullah, Durjoy, Sagar, and Shaheed Daulat. Khulna sees the presence of Meghna and Chitra/Titas, while in Bagerhat, ships Karatoya and Abu Bakar/Durgam are on patrol. Salam and Kushiyara are deployed in Pirojpur and Barguna, Padma and Chitra/Titas in Barisal, and LCVP-013 in Patuakhali.
Surveillance is being carried out round-the-clock using Navy warships and advanced maritime patrol aircraft to monitor deep-sea areas and prevent illegal intrusion by domestic and foreign fishing trawlers. Navy ships, craft, and boats are strategically stationed in the main breeding zones of hilsa.
The Navy is working in close coordination with the local administration, armed forces, Coast Guard, Naval Police, and the Department of Fisheries. The joint effort aims to prevent illegal hilsa harvesting and foreign fishing intrusions while ensuring enforcement of the seasonal ban.
Strict legal action will be taken during the campaign against unauthorized individuals and mechanical fishing vessels involved in hilsa harvesting. Simultaneously, awareness activities are being conducted to inform the public about the importance of protecting hilsa during this crucial reproductive period.
Naval personnel are committed to preserving hilsa breeding grounds, facilitating unhindered reproduction, and ensuring the conservation of mother hilsa as a national economic asset.
The Bangladesh Navy continues its efforts to increase hilsa abundance and enhance the country’s fishery resources by securing safe breeding conditions in both maritime and inland waters, reports UNB.