Cyclone Remal has wreaked havoc on Bagerhat's fish and shrimp farming sector, causing extensive damage estimated at Tk 300 crore. Around 35,000 enclosures have been washed away, leaving farmers reeling from substantial losses.
 
During a recent visit to Rampal Upazila, our correspondent witnessed numerous embankments breached by tidal surges, leading to widespread inundation of the area. The impact on fisheries is severe, affecting regions including Sadar, Rampal, Mongla, and Morelganj upazilas.
 
Local farmers expressed their dismay, with shrimp farmer Samir Baran lamenting the loss of his enclosures to tidal surges. Anwar Hossain from Chanditala echoed similar sentiments, emphasizing the recurring nature of such disasters.
 
Mohitul Islam Sumon, president of the Shrimp Farmers Association, underscored the dire situation, estimating losses worth Tk 300 crore district-wide. He called for urgent support measures, including interest-free loans and life insurance for affected farmers.
 
ASM Russel, the district fisheries officer, provided insight into the extent of the damage, with 35,000 enclosures lost and preliminary losses totaling Tk 73 crore. The fisheries department highlighted the urgent need for financial assistance and favorable loan terms to aid farmers in their recovery efforts.
 
With 55,000 fish farmers affected, the aftermath of Cyclone Remal poses a significant challenge to the local economy and livelihoods dependent on fish and shrimp farming in Bagerhat district.
 
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