58-Day Fishing Ban in Bay Begins Tuesday

The government’s 58-day ban on fishing in the Bay of Bengal will come into effect tomorrow, April 15, and continue until June 11, as part of efforts to ensure the sustainable breeding and conservation of marine fish stocks.

The annual ban, enforced under the Marine Fisheries Rules 2023, prohibits all fishing activities by any vessel during this critical period for marine life.

A gazette notification issued by the Ministry of Fisheries and Livestock underscored the importance of the restriction, describing it as essential for the "proper breeding, production, preservation, and sustainable collection of marine fisheries."

In addition to the Bay-wide ban, specific restrictions have been imposed on fishing activities in Bhola, a coastal district known for its vibrant fishing community. According to Bhola District Fisheries Officer Biswajit Kumar Deb, approximately 65,000 sea-going fishermen in the area will suspend operations during the ban.

To help offset the economic impact, the government has arranged to provide each registered fisherman in the affected regions with 78 kilograms of rice as assistance.

Enforcement efforts will be led by a joint task force comprising members of the Bangladesh Coast Guard, Navy, and the Department of Fisheries, who will carry out regular patrols to ensure strict compliance throughout the maritime zone.

Authorities express hope that the temporary suspension of fishing will play a pivotal role in replenishing fish stocks, ultimately safeguarding the livelihoods of coastal communities and promoting the long-term sustainability of the country’s marine resources.