Widespread jatka fishing with illegal bamboo traps in Faridpur’s Padma threaten hilsa stocks
At several points along the river, rows of bamboo poles have been planted in water bodies between sandbars, with nets fixed beneath the surface to create long fishing traps
Illegal bamboo traps built across the Padma River in Faridpur's Sadar upazila are being used for indiscriminate jatka fishing, raising fresh concerns over the sustainability of the country's hilsa stocks.
At several points along the river, rows of bamboo poles have been planted in water bodies between sandbars, with nets fixed beneath the surface to create long fishing traps.
The structures are blocking the natural movement of fish and trapping jatka and other indigenous species. Although the administration says the illegal traps will be removed soon, the practice continues.
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During a recent visit, such traps were found in areas including Dheukhali, Akoter Char, Char Nasirpur and Diara Narikelbaria unions. In several locations, bamboo structures stretched from one bank of the river to the other.
Fishers collect the trapped fish every few hours and supply them to local markets. Besides jatka, fish of all sizes are being caught, which experts warn could severely disrupt breeding cycles and reduce future hilsa production.
Local fisherman Rashid Sheikh said, "These illegal traps pose a serious threat to the breeding cycle of fish. They are also creating major obstacles to river navigation. Not only hilsa, but all types of fish are getting trapped in these structures."
Another resident, Tuhin, said, "Catching fish by blocking the river in this manner is unlawful. The government should remove these structures immediately and take strict legal action against those involved."
Sadarpur Upazila Fisheries Officer Md Mehedi Hasan said regular drives are being conducted to remove such traps.
"We are conducting regular drives to remove horizontal traps in the river. These illegal structures will be demolished soon, and those involved will be brought under the law," he said.
To boost hilsa production, catching, selling, transporting, and storing jatka measuring less than 10 inches is prohibited from 1 November to 30 June.
Under the Fisheries Protection and Conservation (Amendment) Ordinance 2025, violations can lead to up to two years of rigorous imprisonment, a fine of up to Tk5 lakh, or both.
Despite the restrictions, illegal jatka fishing continues in parts of the river, prompting calls from locals for stricter enforcement.
