Honey collection from the Sundarbans began on Tuesday with a target of collecting 2,500 quintals from the mangrove forest this year.
Registered honey collectors, locally known as mouals, have prepared their boats and will enter the forest with official permits. However, widespread fears of piracy and abduction have dampened enthusiasm among collectors, raising concerns over the season’s success and the livelihoods of thousands of forest-dependent families.
Mouals allege that several armed groups are currently active in the forest, engaging in kidnapping and extortion. Some collectors claim they have been asked to pay up to Tk 10,000 per person, often to multiple groups, as a condition for safe passage. Many have indicated they may skip the season altogether due to these threats.
According to Forest Department data, the western region of the Sundarbans—covering Khulna and Satkhira ranges—has a target of 1,800 quintals of honey and 900 quintals of wax, while the eastern region—Sharankhola and Chandpai ranges—aims to collect 700 quintals of honey and 200 quintals of wax.
Production has shown fluctuations in recent years. In 2021, total honey collection stood at 4,463 quintals, declining to 3,008 quintals in 2022 and 2,825 quintals in 2023. Although it rose to 3,183 quintals in 2024, it dropped again to 2,076 quintals in 2025. The number of Mouals has also decreased significantly—from around 8,000 in 2024 to about 5,000 last year. Local stakeholders fear a further decline this season if security conditions do not improve.
In addition to human threats, collectors face natural hazards in the forest, including encounters with the Royal Bengal Tiger, venomous snakes, and harsh environmental conditions. Many Mouals say that while wildlife was once their primary concern, the growing presence of pirates has become a greater threat.
The honey collection season typically runs from April to June, beginning with Khalisha blossoms and progressing through Goran, Kakra, Hargoza, and ending with Keora and Gewa ফুলের nectar sources. Weather conditions, particularly rainfall, play a critical role in determining production levels.
Abdur Razzak, a Mouyal (honey collector) team leader from Dumuria village in coastal Gabura Union, said he collects honey from the Sundarbans every year. This season, he has formed a team of 12 members and is set to depart today with an official permit to begin harvesting.
He noted that honey from the Sundarbans is highly valued across the country because it is natural and free from adulteration, resulting in strong demand in markets nationwide.
The forest department has issued strict guidelines to ensure sustainable harvesting and safety. Each collector is permitted to gather up to 50 kg of honey and 15 kg of wax over a maximum period of 14 days. Authorities have also intensified joint patrols with the Coast Guard and increased surveillance in high-risk areas.
Officials expressed hope that improved weather and enhanced security measures will help achieve the seasonal targets. A successful harvest would not only contribute to government revenue but also provide vital income for thousands of coastal families reliant on forest resources.
@Mashiur Rahman, assistant conservator of forests (ACF) of the Satkhira Range, said that authorities are working to ensure the protection and safety of bee populations in the Sundarbans. Alongside strengthening security measures across the forest, necessary support is being provided to facilitate safe honey collection. He expressed hope that the situation will improve.
Md Al-Amin, Officer-in-Charge of the Andharmanik Patrol Outpost in the Sundarbans, said that three main species of bees—Apis dorsata, Apis cerana, and Apis florea—are commonly found in the forest. Among them, Apis dorsata is the most economically significant. At the start of the season, these bees often build hives on low branches. To prevent honey theft, patrols have been intensified and boats are being checked along river routes.
Hasanur Rahman, Divisional Forest Officer of the Sundarbans West Forest Division, said that steps have been taken to organize this year’s inauguration on a larger scale. Under current regulations, a beekeeper is allowed to collect a maximum of 50 kilograms of honey and 15 kilograms of beeswax within a 14-day period and must not remain in the forest beyond the permitted duration.
Divisional Forest Officer of the East Forest Division Md Rezaul Karim said that multiple initiatives have been taken to ensure the safety of honey collectors. Joint patrols by the Forest Department and the Coast Guard have been strengthened, and surveillance has been increased in high-risk areas. However, collectors have also been advised to avoid venturing too deep into the forest and to remain closer to forest office zones for safety.
