Fisheries and Livestock Minister SM Rezaul Karim revealed that Bangladesh has earned 13.62 million US dollars (Tk 141.64cr) from exporting 1,352 tonnes of hilsa fish to India this year so far. Besides, hilsa production has doubled in last 12 years and the rate of production is now 90 percent.
The minister informed this while speaking at a press briefing on ‘Mother hilsa conservation drive 2022’, held at the Secretariat. Like every year, the government is going to impose a 22-day ban on hilsa fishing during its breeding period– from October 7 to 28, he said.
Hilsa catching, selling and transporting will remain prohibited in the 7,000 square km area during the period to ensure the safe spawning of the hugely popular fish during its peak breeding period, he added. ‘Those found violating the law will face legal action including imprisonment and fine. None will be spared,’ said the minister.
Besides, the government will take strict action against those involved in creating any obstruction on the development of hilsa resources.
During this ban period all activities including catching, selling and transportation of hilsa will be prohibited in 20 districts, he said. The ice factories of the districts will also be closed as well during the ban, he added.
