Mohammad Ali Sanu, Dimla (Nilphamari) 

The Teesta River in Nilphamari’s Dimla Upazila is facing a severe environmental threat. On one hand, electric shocks are being used to kill fish, while on the other, filter traps are catching breeding and juvenile fish. These illegal methods are causing a significant blow to the river's biodiversity and the livelihoods of local communities.

Electric shocking: A Deadly Game : 

Powerful inverters and batteries are being used to generate electric shocks in the river. Wires are thrown into the water, stunning fish and other aquatic creatures like worms, crabs, snails, and frogs. These stunned animals are easily collected using nets, causing immense damage to the river's resources.

Filter Traps: Disrupting  breeding cycle : 

Moreover, filter traps made of bamboo, nets, and metal rings are being set up in the river’s water flow. These traps catch smaller fish and juveniles, disrupting the natural breeding cycle. Adult fish are unable to reach ponds or wetlands, severely harming their life cycle.

Impact on Nature: Local Testimonies : 

In various areas of Dimla, including West Chhatnai, Jharasingheshwar, Dohlapara, and Telirbazar, these traps are used openly, both day and night. Local fisherman Abdul Malek (60) says, "Earlier, we could catch fish in nets throughout the day. Now, electric shocks are killing everything."

Fisheries Expert’s Concerns : 

Fisheries expert Dr. Mahbubur Rahman states, "Electric shocking is destroying the fish breeding cycle. The loss of juvenile fish is leading to the extinction of species like shoal, boal, tengra, and punti. The filter traps are exacerbating the crisis, posing a severe threat to food security and biodiversity."

Government Action: Enforcement and Awareness : 

Dimla’s Fisheries Officer, Md. Mamunur Rashid, mentions, "These methods destroy all aquatic life. We are trying to raise public awareness, and as soon as we receive information, we will conduct operations." Meanwhile, Dimla UNO  Imranuzzaman, emphasizes, "This is not just illegal, but also a dangerous threat to biodiversity and the environment. The issue is under surveillance, and legal action will be taken soon."

The situation calls for urgent attention and increased awareness to protect both the environment and the livelihoods of local communities.