Hanif Mia, Pirganj (Rangpur): The Upazila Fisheries Office in Pirganj, Rangpur, has intensified its crackdown on the use of illegal "China Duari" current nets in a bid to protect indigenous fish species, aquatic biodiversity, and the country`s natural fishery resources. As part of its ongoing enforcement campaign, a special drive was conducted on Tuesday (August 4) at Bhekir Beel, the Naleya River, and the sluice gate area at the outlet of Boro Beel under Panchgachhi Union and Pirganj Municipality. During the operation, officials seized 36 illegal "China Duari" current nets from different locations. The confiscated nets were immediately burned in public at the spot to prevent their reuse. The drive was led by Pirganj Senior Upazila Fisheries Officer Md Kawsar Hossain with the participation of other officials and staff members of the Upazila Fisheries Office. Speaking to this correspondent, Md Kawsar Hossain said that the use of illegal "China Duari" current nets poses a serious threat to indigenous fish species and aquatic ecosystems. "These nets indiscriminately catch fish of all sizes, including juvenile fish and fry, disrupting natural breeding and reducing fish populations. Such practices also threaten the ecological balance of rivers, canals and wetlands," he said. He further said that the Fisheries Department would continue its regular drives to eliminate the sale, storage and use of illegal current nets across Pirganj Upazila. "There will be no leniency towards those who violate the law. Alongside enforcement, we are also carrying out awareness campaigns among fishermen and local communities to encourage sustainable fishing practices," he added. According to the Upazila Fisheries Office, similar drives have recently been conducted in different unions of the upazila, resulting in the seizure and destruction of a large number of illegal current nets. Local residents and conscious citizens have welcomed the ongoing drives, expressing hope that strict enforcement will help restore indigenous fish populations, conserve aquatic biodiversity and ensure the sustainable management of the country`s fisheries resources.