22-Day Hilsa Fishing Ban Comes into Effect in Patuakhali

In Patuakhali, a coastal district of Bangladesh, a 22-day government-imposed ban on fishing all varieties of fish, including Hilsa, has come into effect from midnight on 4 October 2025. The ban aims to protect the mother Hilsa during its breeding season.

During this period, the following activities are strictly prohibited:

Authorities have also used loudspeakers across the district to create mass awareness about the enforcement of the ban.

Following the announcement, most fishing trawlers stationed in the Bay of Bengal returned to Shibbaria River in Mahipur and Alipur from Friday morning.

Fishermen have demanded an increase in government incentives and called for the strengthening of administrative patrols in the sea to prevent intrusion and aggression from fishermen of neighbouring countries.

Speaking to BSS, Kalapara Upazila Senior Fisheries Officer, Apu Saha, said: “Our patrols will operate day and night to ensure the ban is strictly enforced. During this period, government assistance will also be provided to affected fishermen.”

The 22-day fishing ban is set to continue until 25 October 2025, after which authorities will reassess the situation to ensure the sustainable protection of Hilsa in the region.

This measure is part of Bangladesh’s long-standing effort to conserve the Hilsa population, which is a key economic and cultural resource for coastal communities.