China-duari, current nets threaten fish, biodiversity

The use of China-duari and current nets has increased in rivers, canals and water bodies in Daudkandi and Titas upazilas of Cumilla with fish, these nets are trapping fish fry and various aquatic animals, raising concerns over the depletion of native fish species and damage to aquatic biodiversity.

Recently, a large China-duari net was seen being dried beside the Bazar Khola canal in South Panchgachia Union of Daudkandi. Abul Hashem Bepari said he was unaware that fishing with such nets was prohibited. He said he and his nephew, Sharif, use the nets for fishing. They also have several current nets.

A visit to the areas found fish fry as well as snakes, frogs, small freshwater fish and crabs trapped in China-duari nets. The use of such nets was observed in Char Charmahamuddi, Daiyapara, Sundalpur, Kauadi, Baynagar and Jinglatali areas of Daudkandi.

Mosammat Sabina Yasmin Chowdhury, senior fisheries officer of Daudkandi Upazila, said drives against the use of such nets are conducted every year. However, no drive has been conducted this year so far.
“We will discuss the matter with the Upazila Nirbahi Officer and conduct a drive soon,” she said, adding that she is currently the only employee working at her office.

Mosammat Nazma Akter, fisheries officer of Titas Upazila, said her office has an approved manpower structure of five to six people, but she is currently working alone.

“We will discuss the matter with the UNO and try to conduct drives through mobile courts,” she said.
Environmentalist Professor Matin Saikat, AIP, told correspondent Saiful Islam that fish fry and various aquatic animals are being indiscriminately caught in these nets.

“This is harming native fish species and aquatic biodiversity,” he said, stressing the need to stop the production, sale and use of such nets and ensure adequate manpower at fisheries offices at the field level.

A similar situation was found along the northwestern bank of the Gomti River in Titas, particularly in Kadamtali, Narayanpur, Ratanpur, Darikandi, Dularampur, Haidankandi, Manik Kandi, Jagatpur, Khanebari and Gobindapur areas.

China-duari and current nets were also seen being sold openly at various markets, including Gouripur Bazar in Daudkandi and Batakandi Bazar in Titas.