Fishermen in the Sonar Para market area of Cox’s Bazar netted approximately 16 maunds of hilsa, locally known as fuitta hilsa or gonja fish, in a single haul, earning nearly Tk 72,000 and generating enthusiasm among both fishermen and traders.
Fisherman Nur Mohammad said a strong presence of fish in the sea enabled them to secure the sizeable catch with a single cast of the net. The current market price stands at Tk 4,500 per maund, bringing the estimated value of the 16-maund catch to around Tk 72,000. He added that strong market demand could result in an even higher selling price.
A visit to the Sonar Para sea beach area showed wholesale traders washing the freshly caught fish and preserving them with ice. The consignment is being prepared for swift distribution to permanent kitchen markets in the locality and surrounding areas.
Wholesale trader Kamal Hossain said they purchase fish directly from fishermen and supply them to local and nearby markets. At present, the fish can be sold in the retail market at approximately Tk 170 per kilogram, he added.
Locals observed that when fish stocks increase in the sea, it brings relief to fishermen and helps stabilise market supply.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
