(BSS) - Approximately 2,500 meters of illegal fishing nets, known as `China Duari Jals`, were seized and destroyed during a drive conducted by the Meherpur Sadar Upazila Fisheries Office.

The operation took place today, running from this morning until noon, targeting the Ceutia and Kajla rivers within the Meherpur sadar upazila.

Kamrunnahar Akhi, senior fisheries officer of Sadar upazila of the district, stated that the operation was initiated based on reports of fishing being carried out using the prohibited `China Duari nets`.

The drive, which centered on the Ceutia river area and extended to Amjhupi Kuthibari and the Kajla river, resulted in the confiscation of 58 China Duari nets, measuring 2,200 meters in length, along with two Veshal Jals. The total estimated value of the seized nets is approximately Taka three lakh.

The seized nets were subsequently burned and destroyed through a mobile court procedure held on the bank of the Bhairab River, near Amjhupi Kuthibari.

The mobile court was overseen by Sumaiya Jahan Jhurka, assistant commissioner (Land) of Meherpur Sadar upazila.
Jhurka explained that the government has implemented various measures aimed at conserving endangered native fish species.

Despite these efforts, some unscrupulous individuals are utilizing illegal `China Duari nets`, thereby pushing these species toward destruction, the AC land noted.

She confirmed that the destruction of the nets followed the necessary legal procedures.

Other officials present during the operation and destruction included Meherpur District Fisheries Officer Rabiul Islam and Sadar Upazila Senior Assistant Fisheries Officer Mir Zakir Hossain.