Bangladesh has earned 1,36,20,000 US dollars (Tk 141.64cr) from exporting 1,352 tonnes of hilsa fish to India this year so far.

Besides, hilsa production has doubled in last 12 years and the rate of production is now 90 percent.

Fisheries and Livestock Minister SM Rezaul Karim revealed this information while speaking at a press briefing on ‘Mother hilsa conservation drive 2022’, held at the Secretariat.

Like every year, the government is going to impose a 22-day ban on hilsa fishing – from October 7 to 28, he said.

Hilsa catching, selling and transporting will remain prohibited in the 7,000 square km area during the period to ensure the safe spawning of the hugely popular fish during its peak breeding period, he added.

“Those found violating the law will face legal action including imprisonment and fine. None will be spared,” said the minister.

Besides, the government will take strict action against those involved in creating any obstruction on the development of hilsa resources.

During this ban period all activities including catching, selling and transportation of hilsa will be prohibited in 20 districts including Chandpur, Laxmipur, Noakhali, Feni, Chattogram, Cox’s Bazar, Barishal, Bhola, Patuakhali, Barguna, Pirojpur, Jhalakathi, Bagerhat, Dhaka, Shariatpur, Madaripur, Faridpur, Rajbari, Manikganj and Munshiganj districts, he said.

The ice factories of the districts will be closed as well during the ban, he added.

Meanwhile, fishermen of 18 districts including Gopalganj, Narayanganj, narsingdi, Kishoreganj, Tangail, Rajshahi, Chapainawabganj, Pabna, Sirajganj, Natore, Bagura, Kurigram, Gaibandha, Brahmanbaria, Khulna, Kushtia, Narail and Jamalpur districts will be allowed to catch other fish except hilsa.

BDST: 1402 HRS, OCT 06, 2022
MN/SMS