Rajshahi, July 20 (V7N) – Indigenous freshwater fish populations in the rivers, canals, and wetlands of Rajshahi’s Shib River and surrounding areas are rapidly declining due to the indiscriminate use of banned fishing gear such as Chinese traps (China Duari), iron rings, and current nets. Once abundant, native fish species now face the threat of extinction, a crisis compounded by climate change, habitat destruction, excessive pesticide use, and the rampant use of illegal fishing nets.

Local fishermen report that the fine-threaded iron ring nets trap not only fish but also various aquatic creatures including snails, frogs, crabs, snakes, and other species, causing a severe loss in biodiversity. These fishing gears are usually set underwater where they are hard to detect, especially in shallow areas marked only by bamboo stakes.

On-site observations revealed that about 20-30 such nets are set daily in the Shib River at Gokulmathura, Sheetlipara, Kuthipara, and other locations. These nets, which can be 50-60 meters long, capture fish fry of several native species such as Boal, Tengra, and Puti. Fishermen Anil and Suken warn that if the use of these nets is not stopped immediately, the indigenous fish populations may soon disappear.

Eyewitnesses say fish and other aquatic animals trapped in these nets cannot escape and often die when nets are retrieved, causing a collapse of the local aquatic ecosystem. Former professional fisherman Mahanta shared that the river used to be full of fish but now remains nearly empty due to the widespread use of Chinese trap nets, forcing him to change his profession.

Local experts and environmentalists criticize the lack of effective monitoring by the Upazila Fisheries Department. They emphasize that unrestricted use of banned nets during fish breeding seasons severely hampers natural fish reproduction and endangers biodiversity.

Upazila Fisheries Officer Babul Hossain stated that out of 260 indigenous freshwater fish species in Bangladesh, 64 are under threat. He confirmed that mobile courts are conducting raids to seize and destroy illegal nets. However, many nets are set at night, making enforcement difficult. He urged public cooperation to protect the native fish and aquatic biodiversity.

The declining indigenous fish population not only threatens biodiversity but also impacts the livelihoods of thousands of fishermen and the food security of local communities who depend heavily on freshwater fish.

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