Govt issues 111 DO letters for mother Hilsa protection

111Staff Correspondent222
The government has intensified efforts to protect mother Hilsa during the peak breeding season, issuing 111 demi-official (DO) letters to ministers, lawmakers and deputy commissioners in 38 districts, including 16 coastal districts.

Fisheries, Livestock and Agriculture Minister Mohammad Amin Ur Rashid issued the letters, urging local administrations to raise public awareness and strengthen coordinated efforts to prevent Hilsa fishing during the 22-day ban, which will remain in force until October 29.

The decision was taken at a meeting of the National Task Force Committee on Hilsa Resource Development at the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock on Saturday. The meeting finalised measures for the 2026 Mother Hilsa Conservation Campaign. Presiding over the meeting, the minister said there would be no leniency in enforcing the ban to ensure sustainable Hilsa production.

He directed the authorities to intensify surveillance and enforcement drives in major breeding grounds, particularly in Barishal, Chandpur and Bhola.

District administrations, Naval Police, the Coast Guard and the Department of Fisheries have been asked to coordinate their efforts to prevent illegal fishing. Additional vessels and logistical support will be provided to high-risk areas, if necessary.