Due to the ban on fishing in the Meghna River for two months to protect Jatka, fishermen are utilizing their time to repair boats and mend nets in the connecting canal. Photo: Messenger
A ban on fishing in the Meghna River, including the Raipur area, from March 1 to April 30 to protect Hilsha fish and Jatka has left fishermen struggling.
The absence of other fish has disrupted their usual source of income, forcing many into financial distress. As Eid approaches, families are facing hardships, unable to afford new clothes for their children or even basic necessities.
Former Upazila Chairman Md. Altaf Hossain Hawladar highlighted the somber atmosphere among fishermen, with no festive cheer due to the ban on Jatka fishing and the scarcity of other fish. Fishermen, hoping for a fruitful catch, return home empty-handed, unable to cover their costs. The closure of fishing grounds has impacted over 12,000 fishermen in Raipur, with the majority residing in North and South Char of Banshi Union.
Abul Hossain, chairman of South Char, mentioned the financial crisis gripping families this Eid, exacerbated by the government ban. Despite some relief efforts like the Tare Jatka Raksha program providing rice to 6,000 fishermen, the community continues to struggle. Mustafa Bepari, President of the Raipur Fishery Association, expressed disappointment over the lack of fish in the river, dampening Eid celebrations for fishermen accustomed to bountiful catches.
Upazila Fisheries Officer Md. Emdadul Haque outlined the challenges faced by the 12,000 fishermen in Raipur, with 8,000 under VGF assistance. While rice and other aids have been provided, the ban's lingering effects persist, leaving fishermen uncertain about their future.
Messenger/Faria
