A 58-day government ban on fishing in the sea off Cox’s Bazar came into effect at midnight on Tuesday, raising concerns among local fishermen about their livelihoods.
Fishermen said that without adequate support, the prolonged restriction could deepen hardship in coastal areas. They added that the assistance currently provided by the government is insufficient to meet their needs, particularly in financial aid and food supplies, and called for adequate support and rehabilitation during the ban period.
Local fishermen said a combination of declining fish availability and a prolonged fuel crisis has left thousands worried about their income.
A visit to the No. 6 jetty along the Bakkhali River in Cox’s Bazar town showed rows of fishing trawlers anchored, with most fishermen having returned from the sea before the ban began.
Many said they had to return empty-handed after spending several days at sea without catching the expected catch.
Fisherman Rabiul Hossain said, “For the past month, we could not go to sea regularly due to the fuel crisis. Now, with the ban in place, it will be difficult to run our families.”
Another fisherman, Hamid, said, “I took loans to buy nets and fuel. Now, without catching fish, I am struggling with debt and unsure how to support my family.”
Trawler owner Abdur Rahman alleged that the government assistance is far below what is needed and suggested that adjusting the timing of the ban could help them recover some losses.
Fish trader Saiful Islam said unregulated trawling is a major reason behind declining fish stocks, adding that the fuel crisis has also prevented fishermen from going into deep waters, causing significant losses.
Delowar Hossain, general secretary of the Cox’s Bazar District Fishing Boat Owners’ Association, said implementing a 45-day ban from June 1 each year would provide some relief to fishermen. He also mentioned that they have communicated the demand to the government.
Concerned stakeholders warned that without sufficient support, the long-term restriction could lead to a humanitarian crisis in coastal areas.
Cox’s Bazar District Fisheries Officer Nazmul Huda said the ban has been enforced following a high-level government decision. He added that food assistance distribution has already begun among 64,023 registered fishermen in the district.
He also said that many fishermen in Cox’s Bazar remain outside the registration system, and efforts are underway to gradually bring them under its coverage. He added that written demands from fishermen would be forwarded to the ministry for consideration.
By Mohammad Morshed
Photo: Hussain Shetu
