Mongla, Nov 04 (V7N) — As the dry fish season kicks off in the Sundarbans, thousands of fishermen from coastal districts are setting out to make a living, despite being weighed down by heavy debts. With the 22-day government ban on fishing lifted, about 10,000 fishermen have begun their journey to Dublar Char and four neighboring areas, where they will stay and work until March 31, 2024.

For generations, coastal fishing communities have risked their lives in these waters, hoping to earn a living despite the challenges they face. However, the fishing profession remains fraught with difficulties, and many families have seen their financial conditions worsen. Due to high costs and operational risks, most fishermen borrow from moneylenders, often at high-interest rates.

As the fishermen prepare to work on drying fish in the Sundarbans, many are burdened with significant loans. Fishermen Subhankar Haldar and Sharjit Biswas, who left from Mongla’s Chila Canal, shared, “We borrowed around 20 lakh taka to finance this season’s fishing. Each year, we take loans without much support from the government. Authorities hear our problems, yet promises of aid remain unfulfilled.”

The Sundarbans’ dried fish industry primarily operates in Dublar Char, Alorkol, Majerkilla, Narkelbaria, and Shalar Char. This year, the Forest Department has permitted the construction of 1,108 fishermen’s houses, 78 depots, and over 100 shops to support the seasonal workforce. The department expects to collect 7 crore taka in revenue from this dry fish season, up from last year’s 6.5 crore taka.

Despite the challenges, the fishermen find some relief from the threat of piracy, which has diminished over the last five years. Fishermen like Rahim Jamadar and Selim Akon, however, expressed concerns about recent rumors of pirates resurfacing. “We hope for protection, and if the Coast Guard can ensure our safety, we can focus on our work,” said Akon.

Coast Guard West Zone Officer Commander Rashedul Karim assured fishermen that measures would be in place to protect them and prevent illegal fishing practices in the Sundarbans region. Additionally, environmental advocates emphasize the importance of conserving the Sundarbans ecosystem. Dr. Sheikh Faridul Islam, Chairman of Save the Sundarbans Foundation, stressed, “The Sundarbans is our natural shield. Without better management to protect it, both the environment and livelihoods of fishing communities are at risk.”

According to forest department estimates, this season is expected to yield 15,000 tons of marine fish, 4,000 tons of shrimp, and 800 tons of hilsa, providing crucial income for fishing families who rely on the dry season’s bounty. The department remains optimistic that this year’s revenue may exceed previous collections if the season goes well.

END/AHS/AJ