With the monsoon just around the corner, coastal villages and fishing communities across Teknaf upazila have entered a busy spell of dry fish production. Local fishermen are making the most of the dry, sunny days before the rains arrive in June to produce chemical-free dried fish under the open sky.
Several fishermen involved in the process said they are now producing dry fish free from harmful chemicals and insects, thanks to training provided by the upazila fisheries department. This shift has significantly reduced health risks and increased demand in the market.
Among the popular varieties being produced are Chhuri (ribbonfish), Loitya (Bombay duck), Laksha, Pokamachh, shrimp, Ayer, Paisa, Maitta, and Rupchanda (pomfret).
The production hubs are mainly concentrated in coastal unions, including Saint Martin’s Island, Baharchhara, and Sadar Union, where fishing communities line the beach with rows of drying fish.
Md. Delwar Hossain, Teknaf’s Upazila Fisheries Officer, said, “Teknaf’s dry fish has a distinct taste and quality. That’s why there’s high demand across the country, and the good price is helping fishermen earn a decent profit.”
By Abdur Rashid Manik
File Photo
