A government-imposed ban on fishing in the Bay of Bengal has caused fish prices to surge sharply in Cox’s Bazar, as local fishermen remain off the sea. The ban, aimed at protecting breeding during the spawning season, has disrupted supply chains, directly affecting wholesale and retail markets.
According to local traders, prices of popular varieties like Rupchanda, Coral (Koral), Loitta, and Hilsa have jumped by Tk 150 to Tk 300 per kilogram over the past week. As a result, many consumers are either reducing their fish purchases or opting for cheaper protein alternatives like chicken and vegetables.
The Department of Fisheries stated that the 58-day fishing restriction is part of an annual conservation effort to ensure sustainable fish populations in the bay.
This scenario has left fishing families in distress due to a sudden loss of income and forced average consumers to stretch their budgets to afford daily essentials.
By Abdur Rashid Manik
Photo: Polash Shikdar
