Sundarbans Correspondent

Despite being the world’s largest mangrove forest and a UNESCO World Heritage Site, illegal fishing and crab harvesting are rampant in the Sundarbans even during the breeding season.

 Toxic substances are reportedly being used for fishing, and banned iron spears and traps are being used to catch crabs. These activities are destroying various fish species and juveniles deep within the forest.

A section of corrupt forest officials and employees are allegedly assisting a group of criminal fishermen in exchange for bribes. As a result, the seasonal ban on fishing and suspension of entry permits remains effective only on paper, sources allege.

According to sources, about 31% of the Sundarbans is covered by wetlands. It contains an enormous share of natural aquatic resources, with about 450 rivers and canals interwoven throughout the region. These waterways host 210 species of white fish, 26 species of shrimp, 13 species of crabs, and countless other aquatic animals. The government earns substantial revenue from these resources every year.

Currently, the breeding season for fish and wildlife is ongoing in the Sundarbans. To protect this period, fishing and entry into the forest are banned during June, July, and August. As a result, permits for tourists and fishermen are suspended. Additionally, this period is vital for the regeneration of trees due to the monsoon. Hence, the forest remains closed to human entry to maintain its ecological balance.

Despite restrictions, unscrupulous fishermen are entering rivers and canals under both the East and West Forest Divisions. They are fishing using prohibited “pata nets” and in some cases, poisoning the water in the canals and rivers—even in zones officially marked as fish breeding sanctuaries.

Banned iron spears and traps ("aaton") are being used to catch crabs. To set these traps, young Sundari trees are being cut down along the riverbanks. These criminal activities are being carried out with complete disregard for rules and with financial backing from corrupt forest personnel.

The collaboration between certain corrupt officials and fishermen/businessmen in forest-adjacent areas is reportedly hampering fish reproduction severely. Although occasional raids take place and some offenders are caught, the illegal activities continue unabated.

Several fishermen, speaking anonymously, confirmed that the three-month ban and suspension of permits are meaningless in practice. Fishing using poison, illegal nets, and traps continues unhindered. During new moon and full moon periods, those seeking to fish allegedly bribe officials to gain access. Each type of fishing method (deep nets, pata nets, traps, spears) requires a separate bribe. Those who pay continue freely; those who refuse face legal charges.

Former UP member of Chunokhuri area, Jibonananda Mondal, said: "Fishing and crab collection are not stopping during the breeding season. If this continues, these valuable natural resources may soon be lost. To save the Sundarbans and its biodiversity, the Forest Department must act decisively. Poison fishing in restricted areas must be immediately stopped. Hunting of tigers, deer, and other wildlife must also be tackled. Those involved must be permanently banned from the forest. However, alternatives like employment or financial aid should also be considered for them. Strict legal action against illegal hunters is the only way to protect the Sundarbans ecosystem.”

Md. Rezaul Karim, Divisional Forest Officer (DFO) of the East Sundarbans, said, " ishing and entry permits are suspended during the breeding season. Entry and harvesting of fish or crabs are banned. But it’s true that some fishermen are entering illegally. So far, we’ve seized numerous boats, dried fish, fresh fish, crabs, and poisoned fish. Many fishermen have also been arrested and sent to court.”

He admitted that a few forest officials or staff may be involved, but clarified: Not everyone is involved. If anyone is proven guilty, we will take the toughest legal action against them. Our Smart Patrol Team is actively conducting operations.”