Dhaka, June 13 (V7N) – As the Eid-ul-Azha festivities wind down and people look for alternatives after days of consuming beef, the demand for fish in Dhaka’s markets has surged. However, supply shortages have led to price hikes, making it a challenging time for buyers.

On Friday (June 13), several markets across the capital witnessed heavy crowds of shoppers looking to purchase fish. Cultivated varieties such as Rui, Katal, Pangas, and Tilapia have seen notable price increases, while small indigenous fish have also become more expensive and scarce.

Traders said that the sudden rise in demand is temporary, driven by city dwellers who stayed in Dhaka during Eid, as many others traveled to their hometowns. “The market pressure has increased over the last two days. Those tired of eating beef during Eid are now searching for fish. But due to limited supply, prices have gone up,” said a trader at Karwan Bazar.

Buyers also expressed frustration over the situation. “Many fishermen and transport workers have gone to the villages for Eid. Once they return, we hope the supply chain will normalize, and we’ll get better choices at reasonable prices,” said one shopper.

Increased water levels in the haor areas have sparked interest among local buyers, but fishermen say the fry have not yet matured, limiting supply. “Though water has entered the haor, the fish fry are still small. That’s why prices are a bit higher now,” explained a fish seller.

Meanwhile, the coastal regions are preparing for the post-ban hilsa fishing season, but river and marine fish prices remain high for now.

According to traders, the fish market is expected to stabilize within a week as normal supply chains resume following the Eid holidays.

END/MSS/AJ