A three-month ban has been placed on fishing and tourism in the Sundarbans by officials in a bid to boost fish breeding and restore ecosystems. In accordance with the ban, the Sundarbans will remain closed to visitors and fishermen from June 1. During this time, fishermen are not allowed to enter rivers and canals; tourists are also banned from entering the Sundarbans. Tanvir Hasan Imran, an officer at the Sharankhola Forest Station, confirmed the official decision. Following the prohibition, the entry permits (passes) will remain suspended.
Md Rezaul Karim Chowdhury, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the East Sundarbans Division in Bagerhat, told BSS that the ban aims to accelerate the reproductive capacity of aquatic and wildlife resources.
The DFO has submitted a proposal to the ministry regarding food assistance and incentives for fishermen who rely on the forest for their livelihood. The proposal requires the approval of the concerned ministry.
Tanzir Hasan, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the West Sundarbans Division in Khulna, while talking to reporters, said the government will deliver aid to fishers, honey collectors, mouals, and bawalis whose livelihoods solely depend on forest resources.
This move is part of an effort, which is generally taken every year, to promote fish breeding, increase the wildlife population, and free the Sundarbans from environmental pollution, he said.