By Mukter Hossain from Harirampur, Manikganj
In the riverine areas of Harirampur upazila in Manikganj including Lecharaganj, Sutalri, and Azimnagar unions, and villages like Patgramchar, Notakhola, Harihordia, Azimnagar, Basantapur, Kabirpur, and Baliarchar the use of so-called chinese fishing nets has become alarmingly widespread. These nets, locally known as China Duari, are not just used for catching fish; they have become a death trap for aquatic biodiversity.
These fine-meshed nets indiscriminately capture fish of all sizes ranging from fingerlings to adults as well as frogs, eels, crabs, snails, and even snakes. Once trapped, escape is impossible. As a result, native fish species, aquatic plants, and biodiversity are being severely endangered, pushing many species toward extinction and posing a growing threat to local food security.
Once a fish or any aquatic organism enters a China Duari net, there’s no way out. Fishermen often discard unwanted aquatic life, killing countless species unnecessarily. The nets also destroy fish eggs and fry, preventing natural reproduction and rapidly reducing fish populations. Trapping both large and small aquatic creatures, the China Duari disrupts the natural ecological balance. Fish-eating birds are losing their food sources, which in turn affects the wider ecosystem.
Demanding the ban of this fishing net Sheikh Munju, a farmer from Notakhola village, said, “We Bengalis are known as a nation of fish and rice. Those who can afford it buy fish from the market, but marginal farmers like us used to catch fish from ponds, canals, and wetlands.’ He went on saying, “Now, because of these China Duari nets, fish have become scarce in our local water bodies. Even native species are disappearing from the market due to the use of banned fishing nets. This net should be banned.”
In support of banning this net another local youth, Sheikh Ratan said, “The use of China Duari nets is increasing every day. Though called a fishing net, it is actually a deadly trap, once a fish enters, it can never escape. This is far more destructive than ordinary nets. Punishment should be in place to stop the use of this fishing net.”
Local trader Harun Sheikh said, “These nets not only trap fish but also destroy aquatic plants. When brought to dry land, everything dies. Aquatic plants and creatures are vital for the environment. Although China Duari is officially banned, enforcement of the law needs to be much stronger.”
Local communities are urging the government to impose and enforce a complete ban on China Duari nets. It is to mention that BARCIK has been working to raise public awareness about the harmful impacts of these nets through village meetings, discussions, and environmental observances.
