On August 6, 2026, a joint operation by the upazila administration and the Department of Fisheries dismantled 10 illegal dams and destroyed prohibited fishing nets along a 4-5 kilometer stretch of the Ghyangrail River in Dumuria upazila, Khulna. The drive aimed to restore the river's natural flow and safeguard indigenous fish species. Assistant Commissioner (Land) Amit Kumar Biswas and Senior Upazila Fisheries Officer Sohel Md. Zillur Rahman Rigan led the initiative, which saw the removal of locally known 'net-patas', behundi nets, and several banned Chinese duari nets. The operation was supported by Atlia Union Parishad Chairman Sheikh Helal Uddin and local police.
The illegal dams and destructive fishing gear have been disrupting the river's natural water flow and breeding patterns of indigenous fish. The use of fine-mesh nets, particularly Chinese duari nets, poses a threat to juvenile fish and aquatic biodiversity. Fisheries officials stated that maintaining the river's natural flow and reducing waterlogging in surrounding areas were top priorities. The authorities warned that legal action would be taken against those involved in such activities.
Assistant Commissioner (Land) Amit Kumar Biswas emphasized that the administration was committed to continuing such enforcement drives to conserve fisheries resources and benefit the public. Local residents and fishermen expressed optimism that the drive would help restore the river's ecosystem and improve fish production. The initiative was welcomed as a necessary step to protect the river's health and ensure sustainable fishing practices.
This effort highlights the broader challenge of managing river ecosystems in Bangladesh, where illegal fishing and dam construction can severely impact local biodiversity and water resources. The success of this drive could set a precedent for similar operations in other riverine areas, contributing to the conservation of aquatic life and sustainable water management.
