Fishermen return to Sundarbans after 3-month ban

The Sundarbans reopened today after being closed for the breeding season during June, July, and August. 

With permits from the Forest Department, fishermen from the Satkhira coast are now rushing to the Sundarbans to catch fish and crabs. Tourists are also now allowed to visit the Sundarbans.

Local communities, who depend on the forest for their livelihoods, have said that the three-month closure of the Sundarbans had halted their income. They are demanding that such closures be avoided in the future and that protected areas be opened for fishing.

Iqbal Husain Chowdhury, assistant forest conservator in the Satkhira Range, said, “Permits are being issued, and fishermen have already begun entering the forest. Furthermore, tourists are now permitted to visit the Sundarbans. Patrols will be conducted to prevent any criminal activities within the forest.”