The Bangladesh Navy has deployed ships, aircraft, boats and personnel in coastal areas, rivers and major hilsa breeding grounds to enforce the 22-day mother hilsa conservation drive.
The nationwide ‘Mother Hilsa Conservation Operation 2026’ began on October 8 and will continue until October 29. During this period, catching, transporting, storing, buying, selling, and exchanging hilsa are prohibited nationwide.
The conservation period also prohibits fishing of all species, including hilsa, in designated marine fishing areas.
Under the ‘In Aid to Civil Power’ arrangement, the Navy has deployed ships and contingents to patrol and monitor nine districts, a press release said.
The Navy is conducting round-the-clock deep-sea surveillance through naval ships and maritime patrol aircraft to prevent illegal entry by local and foreign fishing vessels and fishermen.
The Bangladesh Navy Fleet has also deployed ships, craft, boats, and contingents at sea, in coastal areas, on inland waterways, and in major hilsa breeding grounds.
The Navy will work closely with the local administration, armed forces, Coast Guard, river police, and fisheries authorities to prevent illegal hilsa fishing and the entry of foreign fishing trawlers.
Strict legal action will be taken against individuals and mechanised fishing vessels involved in illegal hilsa fishing during the operation. Awareness campaigns will also be conducted to encourage compliance with the conservation measures.
The Navy said it has regularly played an active role in protecting hilsa breeding grounds and creating favourable conditions for uninterrupted breeding. It will continue working to ensure safe hilsa breeding in the country’s maritime zone and inland rivers, and to protect fisheries resources.
Cox’s Bazar Life Report
Photo: Courtesy
