Ilish traders in Barisal have requested the government for a one-month delay in the ilish fishing ban.
They urged imposing a restriction from November 12 instead of the earlier planned October 12.
The request was made during a press conference on Monday, organized by Barisal Sadar Thana Matsya Arotdar Association.
The speakers noted that various natural factors, including climate change, have negatively affected ilish production, leading to a lower supply this year than in the previous ten years.
Additionally, they argued that the fishing ban would be ineffective because ilish fish have not yet begun their egg-laying season due to natural factors.
Furthermore, the speakers pointed out that the government's ilish export program is scheduled to continue until October 30.
They expressed concerns that the ban would hinder the export of fresh fish and deprive the country of foreign exchange earnings.
When asked why the price of ilish remains high in the local markets despite an export value of only $10 per kg, ilish traders explained that they supply fish of various sizes to the domestic market. Additionally, they anticipate a future decrease in prices.
Furthermore, during a visit to the Barisal Port Road ilish market, this correspondent observed that one kg-size ilish fish is being sold at Tk1,800-1,900, and 700-900gm fish is priced at Tk1400-1500 in the local markets.
Barisal Divisional Fisheries Directorate Deputy Director Nripendra Nath Biswas said: “It is true that fish carrying eggs have yet not arrived this year. We sent this proposal to the ministry to implement the ilish netting ban from October 24 instead of October 12.”
Ilish researcher Dr Anisur Rahman said: “Ilish usually lay eggs during the attraction of the full moon and new moon. That is why this ban cannot be postponed immediately.”
