Rangamati, Aug 31 (V7N) - After a suspension of 127 days, fishing will recommence in Kaptai Lake from midnight on Saturday. Around 26,000 fishing families will start their activities again, which is expected to boost the local economy. Each year, fishing is paused for three months to support the natural breeding of native carp species. This year, the ban lasted from April 24 to July 24 but was extended due to insufficient water levels that affected proper fish spawning. The restriction was first extended by 15 days and then by an additional 23 days, totaling a 38-day extension.
 
Recent continuous rainfall has replenished the water levels in Kaptai Lake, improving the conditions for fish breeding. The Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) anticipates higher revenue from fish sales this year compared to previous years.
 
The BFDC’s Rangamati marketing center has finalized all preparations, and fishermen and traders are ready to resume fishing. With the increased water levels, it is anticipated that the lake will provide the expected amount of fish throughout the year.
 
From early Sunday morning, fish will be transported to major marketing centers in Rangamati, Kaptai, Marishya, and sub-centers in Mahalchhari, Khagrachari. After paying the required duties, the fish will be distributed to various markets, including the capital.
 
According to BFDC, recent years have seen varying fish harvests from Kaptai Lake: 6,794 tons in 2020-21, 6,523 tons in 2021-22, 5,490 tons in 2022-23, and 7,627 tons in 2023-24. This year’s target is to market 8,200 tons of fish and collect Tk 165 million in revenue. The BFDC expects a 20-25% increase in the fish catch due to the favorable water conditions.
 
Udayan Barman, President of the Rangamati Fish Traders Cooperative Society Limited, mentioned that after more than four months of suspension, fishing will resume in Kaptai Lake at midnight. There is a festive atmosphere among fishermen and traders, and the BFDC fish landing center is expected to become busy starting from the morning. With the lake’s abundant water, there is hope for a successful season.
 
During the fishing ban, which aimed to promote the growth of carp and ensure the healthy development of released fry, approximately 26,000 families received 20 kilograms of food grains per month. The fishing ban this year was extended due to lower water levels, but will now be lifted, allowing fishing to resume.
 
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