Fisheries Department in Shariatpur deploys drones for 24-hour hilsa protection
Shariatput Correspondent
For the first time, the Fisheries Department in Naria, Shariatpur, has started using drone technology to monitor hilsa fish during the breeding season.
The drones fly over rivers and provide 24-hour surveillance to prevent illegal hilsa fishing, a step seen as a major innovation in fish protection.
The 22-day hilsa protection operation began on October 4 and involves the Fisheries Department, River Police, Coast Guard, RAB and other law enforcement agencies.
At Padma River’s Sureshwar point, drones continuously monitor river traffic and if any suspicious boat or fisherman is spotted, a speedboat team is immediately sent to inspect.
Naria Upazila Fisheries Officer Md. Zakir Hossain Mridha said, “This is the first time we are using drones. The technology will help ensure sustainable hilsa production and protect food security for future generations.”
Authorities stated that hilsa fishing, selling, transport, and storage are completely banned nationwide from October 4 to October 25.
During this period, administration and law enforcement remain on high alert to protect breeding hilsa.
