After a 58-day fishing ban, fishermen from the coastal areas of Cox’s Bazar are struggling to catch fish due to adverse weather conditions.
Despite setting out with high hopes on the night of June 11, the turbulent waves and unfavorable weather have proved to be significant obstacles for the fishermen.
On June 16, a visit to the Cox’s Bazar Fishery Dock revealed that most deep-sea trawlers had not yet returned. However, some trawlers that ventured into the river and coastal areas began to return, though the catches were disappointing.
While large fish like Hilsa were mostly absent, smaller quantities of shrimp, loitta, knife fish, shapla, black moonfish, and silver moonfish were reported.
Fishermen shared that the harsh weather conditions have made it dangerous to stay in the deep sea for extended periods.
Many trawlers are returning ahead of schedule due to the rough sea, resulting in financial losses as they have failed to catch significant amounts of fish.
Mahbub Alam, a business owner at the Fishery Dock, commented, “During the ban, the weather was quite favorable. But since the ban ended, the sea has been turbulent, preventing fishermen from catching Hilsa. However, a few trawlers have managed to catch shrimp and loitta fish.”
Fisherman Rahim Uddin added, “The large waves and strong winds make it impossible to stay at sea for long. Many trawlers are returning empty-handed, and some haven’t even been able to go fishing yet.”
Ashish Kumar Baidya, Assistant Accounts Officer at the Cox’s Bazar Fisheries Landing Center, reported that from June 11 to 15, around 4 tons of Hilsa and other fish varieties, totaling 48 tons, were unloaded, with an estimated market value of 42 lakh taka. The revenue generated during this period amounted to 46,000 taka.
He further stated, “The ongoing adverse weather conditions are disrupting fishing activities. However, we hope that once the weather improves, fish catches will increase.”
It is important to note that, in line with annual regulations, a 58-day fishing ban was enforced from April 20, aimed at protecting the Hilsa breeding season in deep-sea and coastal areas. After the ban ended, fishermen headed back to sea, but the unforgiving nature of the weather has dashed their hopes.
By Abdu Rashid Manik
Phot: Abdu Rashid Manik
