It was a regular fishing day for Gafur—until he felt a hefty pull on his net. Realising something massive was trapped, he and his crew began hauling it in. The fish was so large that lifting it onto the boat became difficult.
Eventually, tying it with ropes and with the help of nearby fishermen, they brought the giant Shapla Pata fish—locally known as Sing Choain—ashore near the Shahpori–Subrang Marine Drive.
Gafur, a resident of Mundar Deil area under Subrang Union, estimated the fish to weigh around 22 maunds.
The fish was later sold to local trader Syed Alam for Tk 50,000.
Syed Alam, a buyer from Godalbeel area of Teknaf Sadar, said he purchased the fish after it was brought to the Mundar Deil ghat. The fish was cut and sized on the seashore before being transported to the warehouse in a van.
He added that the dried fish would later be sold at Chattogram’s wholesale market.
Teknaf Upazila Fisheries Officer Delwar Hossain said the fish, known as Sing Choain, is a rare species and the export of this fish is prohibited. Despite this, it remains a favoured delicacy among various indigenous and plains communities.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo:
