Bangladesh has launched its first food assistance programme for registered fishers dependent on the Sundarbans during the annual June-to-August ban on catching fish and other aquatic resources. Rice is being distributed to eligible fishers in Sundarbans-adjacent areas, including Mongla in Bagerhat, as the government enforces the three-month closure to protect fisheries, biodiversity and wildlife.

The breeding-season restriction covers rivers, canals and forest-adjacent waters of the Sundarbans and leaves thousands of forest-dependent fishers without work. Beneficiaries said the assistance has eased hardship for their families while fishing is prohibited, although they also called for alternative employment opportunities in the future.

Member of Parliament and State Minister Sheikh Faridul Islam said 6,662 tonnes of rice had been allocated for 8,271 registered fishers in Satkhira, Khulna, Bagerhat and Mongla. A fisheries official said food assistance should encourage compliance with the ban. Forest, fisheries and administrative authorities are conducting regular patrols and operations to prevent illegal fishing and crab collection.