The Bangladesh Coast Guard is conducting public awareness campaigns in Chandpur to support the national conservation of Hilsa fish, the country’s iconic species. Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq, Coast Guard Media Officer, confirmed the initiative on Tuesday.
Since its establishment, the Coast Guard has played a key role in safeguarding Bangladesh’s vast maritime, coastal, and riverine regions. Alongside security duties, it has actively contributed to fisheries protection through anti-jatka (juvenile fish) measures, conservation of breeding Hilsa, and strict monitoring of fishing activities during prohibited periods.
Lieutenant Commander Siam-ul-Haq stated that from October 4 to October 25, covering 22 days of the main Hilsa breeding season, the capture, transportation, storage, marketing, and trade of breeding Hilsa will be strictly prohibited nationwide. The Coast Guard has put in place all necessary measures to ensure successful enforcement of this conservation initiative.
To implement these regulations, surveillance along rivers and coastal areas has been intensified, with 24-hour patrols operating day and night. Public awareness activities include loudspeaker announcements, distribution of leaflets, and community meetings, urging all stakeholders to comply with the law.
In addition, coordinated operations are being carried out in partnership with district administrations, the Department of Fisheries, the Bangladesh Navy, police, and other organizations actively involved in Hilsa conservation. Legal action is being taken against violators to uphold the protection measures.
