By Shahinur Rahman from Singair, Manikganj
A human chain was held recently along the Kaliganga River at Kasta-Barundi ferry ghat in Singair to demand an immediate ban on the production, sale and use of China Duari fishing nets, which are considered destructive to native fish and aquatic biodiversity.
Organized by the Green Coalition with support from BARCIK, the programme was held under the slogan “Protect aquatic life, enrich nature.” Green Coalition member Fazlul Haque chaired the event, which was attended by farmers, fishers, youth representatives and local community members.
Speakers of the event said that native fish were once abundant in rivers, canals, wetlands and other open water bodies. However, climate change, wetland filling and excessive use of chemical pesticides have destroyed fish habitats and contributed to the decline of native species. The use of fine-mesh China Duari nets has further intensified the threat.
They further said that the nets trap not only egg-bearing fish but also snails, mussels, frogs, crabs, snakes, eels and other aquatic organisms. The decline of aquatic biodiversity threatens both ecological balance and the livelihoods and nutritional security of marginal fishing communities.
Participants called for stronger enforcement of existing laws, greater public awareness, and an immediate halt to the production, marketing and use of China Duari nets. At the end of the programme, they decided to submit memoranda to the Singair Upazila Nirbahi Officer and the Deputy Commissioner of Manikganj demanding effective action to protect native fish and aquatic biodiversity.