Kathalia, Jhalakathi, Apr 16 (V7M)– As part of an ongoing effort to eradicate the illegal catching of 'jatka' (juvenile hilsa fish), authorities in Kathalia, Jhalakathi, have seized and publicly destroyed a significant quantity of illegal electric fishing nets.

"As part of the Jatka eradication prevention program in Jhalakathi's Kathalia, 15,000 meters of illegal electric nets were seized and burned in public," a Jhalakathi Representative reported.

The seizure occurred during a raid conducted by the Upazila Fisheries Department on Wednesday, April 16th, in the Bishkhali River within the upazila.

"These nets were seized during a raid conducted by the Upazila Fisheries Department on Wednesday (April 16) in the Bishkhali River of the upazila," the report confirmed.

The operation was spearheaded by Kathalia Upazila Fisheries Officer Nahida Akter. Officials from the local Thana Police and the Fisheries Office were also present to assist in the enforcement action. The estimated market value of the confiscated illegal fishing nets is approximately four lakh taka.

"The operation was led by Kathalia Upazila Fisheries Officer Nahida Akter and other officials from the Thana Police and Fisheries Office were present. The market value of the seized nets is estimated at four lakh taka," the correspondent detailed.

Following the seizure, the illegal nets were transported to the Upazila Parishad grounds and publicly burned, sending a clear message against illegal fishing practices.

"Later, the seized fakes were brought to the Upazila Parishad grounds and burned publicly," the report noted.

Upazila Fisheries Officer Nahida Akter emphasized the ongoing nature of these operations, stating that such raids are being conducted daily and will continue in the effort to protect juvenile hilsa and enforce fishing regulations.

"Upazila Fisheries Officer Nahida Akter said that the operation is going on every day and will continue," Officer Akter affirmed.

The use of illegal electric nets poses a significant threat to fish populations, including the vulnerable jatka, as they indiscriminately catch fish of all sizes. This operation highlights the commitment of local authorities to curb such illegal activities and promote sustainable fishing practices in the region.

END/AIJ/RH/