Kathalia, Jhalakathi, May 15 (V7N) – Unscrupulous fishermen are reportedly engaged in the illegal fishing of fish fry, including Hilsa, in the Bishkhali River in Kathalia, Jhalakathi, under the cover of darkness. This illicit activity is allegedly continuing unchecked, evading administrative oversight. The illegally caught fry are then being sold door-to-door at low prices.

According to multiple local sources, some dishonest fishermen are using gill nets in the river during the night to catch various fish species, including juvenile Hilsa. They bring their catch to the riverbank in small boats and sell them in local markets or directly to homes for approximately 50-80 taka per kilogram.

Alfun Nahar Begum, a resident of West Aura village in the upazila, stated, "We usually have to buy fish from the market. However, fishermen bring small Hilsa fry home by boat. The price is also much lower than other fish in the market. I bought 2 kg for 140 taka a few days ago."

Local fishermen and environmentalists warn that if the killing of fry during the Hilsa's primary breeding season is not stopped, it will become increasingly difficult to find Hilsa in this river in the future. They emphasize that allowing these fry to mature would significantly contribute to the country's Hilsa production. They believe that the situation will only improve with strict administrative monitoring and increased public awareness. There are fears that the continued killing of fry could threaten not only the Hilsa population but also the overall biodiversity of the river.

Kathalia Upazila Fisheries Officer Nahida Akhter commented, "We are aware of the issue and are taking it seriously. A drive will be launched very soon, and necessary action will be taken."

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