Illegal trawling threatens marine resources in Patuakhali

PATUAKHALI, June 29 (UNB): Illegal and converted artisanal trawling boats are increasingly operating in the coastal waters of the Bay of Bengal off Mahipur, Alipur, Kuakata, and Ashakhali in Patuakhali's Kalapara upazila, raising concerns over the depletion of marine resources.

Using banned fine-mesh nets and modern fish-detection technology, the trawlers are indiscriminately harvesting fish fry, juvenile fish, egg-bearing brood fish, shrimp larvae, crabs, and other marine organisms, according to local fishermen and fisheries stakeholders.

Experts said the practice is severely disrupting the natural breeding cycle of marine species, threatening long-term fish production and the country's

blue economy. Local fishermen said the number of converted trawling boats operating in the Mahipur-Alipur region has increased significantly over the past year.

While around 40 to 45 such vessels were active in 2025, the figure has now risen to nearly 60.

New wooden fishing boats are reportedly being converted into trawlers at a cost of Tk 3-4 million each in pursuit of higher profits.

Marine experts say the bottom-trawling method used by these vessels is particularly destructive.