In a bid to protect its maritime territory and ensure sustainable fishing practices, Bangladesh is considering the formation of a rapid-response committee. This initiative aims to address the persistent issue of foreign intrusion, particularly by Indian fishermen who frequently trespass into Bangladesh’s waters, even during fishing ban periods.
The proposed committee would bring together key agencies, including the Department of Fisheries (DoF), Bangladesh Fisheries Research Institute (BFRI), the Coast Guard, the Naval Police, and the Navy. The collaborative effort is designed to strengthen Bangladesh maritime territory security and safeguard the nation’s marine resources.
Strengthening Cross-Border Communication
Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter stressed the importance of proactive dialogue with Indian authorities to address these intrusions effectively. She highlighted the necessity for accurate identification of fish breeding periods and scientifically scheduling fishing closures to conserve marine stocks.
“Hilsa is a divine gift and a natural resource of Bangladesh,” Akhter remarked, emphasizing collective efforts to ensure the growth of hilsa populations by protecting them during spawning seasons.
Key Measures for Conservation
The workshop titled “Rescheduling the Fishing Closure Period in the Bay of Bengal“ served as a platform to discuss challenges and propose strategies for sustainable fishing. Akhter called for intensified research by the BFRI and urged the agency to share findings with the public.
She also pointed out the ineffectiveness of fishing bans without addressing the issue of illegal nets, advocating for stricter actions against net manufacturers in Munshiganj. The Ministry of Industries was urged to revoke the licenses of these illegal producers, complementing ongoing crackdowns.
Building International Recognition
BFRI Director General Dr. Anuradha Bhadra emphasized the importance of obtaining international acknowledgment for Bangladesh’s fishing bans, highlighting it as a critical step toward marine conservation. Meanwhile, BFDC Chairman Suraiya Akhtar Jahan reiterated the need to protect breeding cycles, such as those of mother hilsa and baby jatka, to ensure the growth of fish stocks.
The Road Ahead
The proposed rapid-response body is expected to play a pivotal role in securing Bangladesh’s maritime sovereignty and fostering sustainable resource management. Enhancing the capacity of trawler-based fishermen and aligning conservation efforts with global standards will be crucial steps forward.
This initiative signifies Bangladesh’s commitment to addressing the challenges of maritime security while balancing the needs of fishermen and marine ecosystem conservation.
