The government’s 58-day ban on fishing in the Bay of Bengal will come into effect from tomorrow, April 15, and remain in place until June 11, aiming to ensure the sustainable breeding and conservation of marine fish stocks.
The ban, implemented annually, is in accordance with the Marine Fisheries Rules 2023, which prohibit all types of fishing activities by all vessels during the designated period.
According to a gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock, the restriction is essential for the "proper breeding, production, preservation, and sustainable collection of marine fisheries."
In line with the enforcement, a specific restriction has also been placed on fishing activities along the coastal district of Bhola and surrounding maritime areas. Around 65,000 sea-going fishermen in Bhola will suspend their fishing operations during the ban, said Bhola District Fisheries Officer Biswajit Kumar Deb.
To mitigate the economic impact of the ban, the government has arranged to provide each registered fisherman in the affected areas with 78 kilograms of rice as aid.
A joint task force consisting of members from the Bangladesh Coast Guard, Navy, and Department of Fisheries will conduct regular patrols to ensure compliance with the ban throughout the maritime zone.
Authorities hope the temporary restriction will significantly contribute to the replenishment of fish populations and secure the livelihoods of fishing communities in the long term.
