Fisheries and Livestock Adviser Farida Akhter has said that the government will regulate the size and threads of current nets used in fishing.
Speaking at a meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s office in Munshiganj on Tuesday, she said that fisheries officials would have enhanced authority to address the issue, with consultations involving experts from the Department of Fisheries to determine the appropriate size and specifications for the nets.
“Current nets are harmful because there is no control over their size. We will collaborate with experts to set the guidelines for these nets,” she said.
The adviser also highlighted the role of local factories in Munshiganj, which manufacture current nets. She pointed out that the nets produced by these factories have sizes that trap all types of fish, exacerbating the problem.
She added: “We have received consistent reports about this issue and several raids have been conducted at different factories. Many nets have been seized and it is evident that the net traders and factory owners are also involved in this matter”
While addressing the technical aspects, she said, “This issue requires a technical approach, not just raids. The nets must be designed to capture specific types of fish and we will provide clear instructions on the proper size, the material to be used and the manufacturing process.” After the meeting, the adviser inaugurated two exhibitions at the District Commissioner’s office.