Hilsa protection has reached a new level as Bangladesh has embarked on a striking enforcement mission to guard its prized fish during its critical spawning season. The government’s decision to deploy naval ships, patrol aircraft, and cooperate with multiple security agencies is turning heads back home and across borders.
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| Hilsa fish which also known as ilish (Tenualosa ilisha) |
In early October 2025, Bangladesh imposed a roughly three-week ban on hilsa fishing, covering coastal waters, rivers, and breeding zones. The move is meant to give the fish safe conditions to reproduce without pressure from illegal fishing or intrusion from distant trawlers. Under this plan, naval warships are stationed in nine riverine and coastal districts, especially in areas known for spawning like Chandpur, Barisal, and Cox’s Bazar.
The Inter-Services Public Relations arm of the Bangladesh forces says 17 warships and maritime patrol aircraft are conducting round-the-clock surveillance to block any domestic or foreign vessels attempting to fish in restricted zones. These efforts are coordinated with the Coast Guard, Fisheries Department, local administrations, and naval police.
Why the strong action on hilsa protection?
Hilsa is more than a fish in Bangladesh. It carries cultural significance, supports livelihoods of millions of fishermen, and contributes to food security and export earnings. Every year, during spawning season, the fish migrate from the Bay of Bengal up freshwater rivers to lay eggs. Protecting that journey is vital to maintain the species’ population.
But threats like overfishing, illegal nets, foreign vessels entering shared delta waters, and environmental degradation have pushed stocks to vulnerable levels. Experts warn that without stronger protection, future catches may shrink further.
Still, some raise concerns about the method. Md Abdul Wahab, ex-head of the Eco Fish project at WorldFish, cautions that naval activity might disturb the calm waters hilsa need for successful spawning. He suggests that using drones or remote sensors would be less intrusive.
Impact on fishing communities
The ban and military enforcement mean that many small fishermen cannot earn for those three weeks. The government has pledged support by giving 25 kg of rice to each affected fishing family. Even so, some fishermen say that is hardly enough to survive the hiatus. “These weeks are very difficult for us — we have no other source of income,” one 60-year-old fisherman said.
Authorities have promised strict legal actions against violators, including fines, seizure of illegal nets, and possible arrests. To support compliance, awareness drives are ongoing so people understand the importance of this protection mission.
Challenges and the road ahead
While this deployment is powerful symbolism of Bangladesh’s commitment to ecological stewardship, success hinges on balancing strict enforcement with minimal harm to the species. Too much movement and noise from warships may disrupt breeding. Also, logistics in coordinating multiple security arms across rivers and seas is no small task.
If held well, however, this campaign could boost hilsa populations, secure fish stocks for future generations, and stabilize income for fisherfolk in the long run. The coming weeks will test whether this bold military-backed effort can truly protect the very fish it aims to save.