The government has imposed a fishing ban to protect fish stocks, leaving thousands of fishermen in Netrokona’s Mohanganj, Madan, and Khaliajuri areas facing severe hardship. The first phase of the ban ran from May 28 to June 28, followed immediately by a second phase. With no alternative employment or food assistance, many families are living in hunger, and local authorities are finding it difficult to enforce the restrictions.

According to the Department of Fisheries, Netrokona has 49,378 registered fishermen and an additional 30,000 to 40,000 unregistered or seasonal ones, most of whom depend entirely on fishing. On June 3, government ministers visited the area, released 16 tons of fish fry, and announced the new ban. However, fishermen say no measures were taken to support their livelihoods. On July 12, police seized four large nets from Dingapota Haor, but the next day, hundreds of fishermen retrieved them, leading to a case against over 800 people.

Experts warn that without plans to protect both fish and people, the ban may remain ineffective on the ground.