Rangamati district administration has imposed a ban on fishing in Kaptai Lake to ensure proper breeding, growth of released fingerlings and natural reproduction of fish.

The decision was taken at a meeting held at the Deputy Commissioner’s (DC) conference room on Monday afternoon.

According to the administration, all types of fishing, transportation and marketing of fish from Kaptai lake will remain suspended from midnight of April 24 until further notice. Authorities warned that strict legal action will be taken against anyone violating the ban.

Officials said awareness campaigns will be carried out through announcements on waterways and roads to inform the public about the restriction. Mobile courts will also continue operating in the lake area to prevent illegal fishing.

Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC) Commander Md Faiz Al Karim said fish landing at BFDC ghats will be allowed until 4:00 PM on April 25.

He added that the release of fish fry in the lake will begin on May 2, and temporary checkpoints will be set up to curb illegal fishing and transportation during the prohibited period.

Deputy Commissioner (DC) Najma Ashrafi said the ban aims to support sustainable fish production and conservation during the peak breeding season.

She added that registered fishermen dependent on the lake will receive rice under the VGF (Vulnerable Group Feeding) programme during the restriction period.

Senior officials from the Fisheries Research Institute, Bangladesh Fisheries Development Corporation (BFDC), police and local administration, along with representatives of fishing communities, were present at the meeting.