RANGAMATI, Apr 24: A three-month government ban on all types of fishing in Kaptai Lake has come into effect from midnight, aimed at ensuring proper fish breeding and conserving aquatic resources in the country's largest artificial lake.
The restriction will remain in force until July 31 and covers all forms of fishing activity in the lake. Authorities said the seasonal ban has been introduced to protect fish stocks and support the natural growth and reproduction of carp and other species during their breeding period.
As the ban took effect, activity at the Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) fish landing centre in Rangamati intensified. Fishermen and traders were seen packing fishing nets, ice boxes and other equipment and shifting them to storage, while boats were anchored along the shoreline in preparation for the shutdown.
Local ice factories that support the fishing industry have also closed operations, reflecting the immediate impact of the ban on the local economy.
BFDC Commander Md Faiz Al Karim said fishing has been fully stopped from midnight and strict monitoring measures are in place.
He added that temporary check posts have been set up in key areas to prevent illegal fishing and transportation of fish during the closure period.
"We will ensure strict enforcement so that no fishing takes place during the ban period," he said.
Rangamati Deputy Commissioner Najma Ashrafi said the ban has been imposed to ensure proper reproduction and growth of fish in Kaptai Lake during the season.
She also said the government will provide assistance to affected fishermen. "Rice will be distributed through VGF cards among registered fishermen who depend on the lake for their livelihood," she said.
