China Duari and illegal current nets wreaking havoc on the local aquatic ecosystems and reservoirs in Nilphamari district.
The banned nets responsible for a widespread ecological disaster, are decimating fish populations and jeopardizing the delicate balance of the region’s water bodies, experts opine.
These illegal fishing activities in the upazila of Nilphamari have been rampant, employing the use of prohibited current nets and Chinese Duari nets. These nets, despite their ban, are deployed in rivers, canals, and reservoirs across the district, leading to the indiscriminate capture of various fish species. However, the repercussions extend beyond the immediate catch, as these nets indiscriminately capture mother fish and fry, resulting in the disruption of the entire ecological cycle.
The extent of this issue is striking, as nearly one-third of the waterlogged arable land in the district is now ensnared by the invasive Current and Chinese Durari nets. Disturbed locals have raised their voices against the apparent lack of concern exhibited by the Upazila Fisheries Department. They allege that not only is the department indifferent, but there is also a disturbing proximity between key figures and illicit traders, facilitating the rampant buying and selling of these banned nets in local markets.
The scale of this problem is alarming, with these illicit nets virtually smothering the waterways of the Teesta irrigation project, Saifun of Jaldhaka upazila, Buri Teesta, Harisher Dam of Jhunagach Chapani Union, Purb Baish Pond, Madhya Baish Pond, Teesta Barrage’s seal tab, and numerous other reservoirs.
Local resident Mostafa, hailing from Baispukur village in Dimla upazila, revealed the startling prevalence of these illegal nets along the riverbanks. He attested that as many as 500 to 1000 Chinese Duari nets line the riverbanks in the Baispukur area alone. He himself owns two of these prohibited nets. Shockingly, many residents possess even more, with some owning 10 to 12 nets each. The nets are sold openly, with prices ranging from Taka 7,000 for Current nets to Taka 12,000 for Chinese Duari nets.
Rafiqul Islam, another resident from the same village, lamented the adverse impact of these nets on local fish populations. He explained how once-abundant fish varieties have dwindled, attributing the decline to the destructive effects of these illegal nets. He emphasized that the compromised ability of fish to reproduce is directly linked to the grim outlook for the region’s fish population.
A concerned educator, who wished to remain anonymous, underscored the broader ecological consequences of these illicit nets. All forms of aquatic life are facing a dire threat, with native fish species potentially becoming a distant memory if prompt intervention is not executed by the authorities.
In response to these alarming circumstances, Shamima Akhter, Dimla Upazila Officer of the Fisheries Department, shared that some efforts have been made to curb the usage of Chinese Duari and Current nets. While acknowledging the busy schedule due to the recently passed fishing week, she assured that operations will recommence soon. Addressing the manpower shortage in her office, she highlighted that the involvement of the Upazila Land Officer will aid in executing regular operations.
The unchecked use of banned nets spells disaster for Nilphamari’s aquatic ecosystems. Urgent and coordinated action is required to put an end to this ecological crisis before it irreparably damages the delicate balance of the region’s waters.