Fishing in the Bay of Bengal has been suspended for 22 days under a government-imposed ban aimed at protecting fish breeding. During this period, all forms of fishing are prohibited, leaving many coastal fishers without work.
While some spend this downtime repairing nets and trawlers, others are seeking alternative sources of income to sustain their families.
A visit to Sonarpara beach in Cox’s Bazar revealed one such story. Despite the ongoing ban, a couple was seen collecting shrimp fry along the shoreline.
Speaking to them, it became clear that they were complying with the ban on deep-sea fishing but had little choice but to turn to the shallow waters to earn a modest living.
“We collect shrimp fry together,” the couple said. “It doesn’t bring in much, but life doesn’t stop. Whatever little we earn helps us get by.”
Local fishers said that most of them use the ban period to mend their trawlers and fishing gear. However, a few—driven by necessity—venture close to shore to collect shrimp fry and sell them for a small income.
Every year, the government enforces this fishing ban to allow marine species to breed and replenish stocks in the Bay of Bengal.
Though incentives are provided to affected fishers during this time, many claim they do not receive the support properly or on time.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Photo: Hussain Shetu
