Dhaka, Oct. 21 -- Illegal fishing and sales of mother hilsa are continuing openly at several points along the Padma and Jamuna rivers in Pabna despite a nationwide 22-day ban aimed at protecting the fish during their breeding season and increasing production.

Field visits found that the confluence of the Padma and Jamuna rivers near Ishurdi, Sujanagar and Dhalarchar in Bera is a major breeding ground for mother hilsa and a hotspot for illegal fishing.

Fishermen are taking fish directly from the rivers to homes along the banks, from where the catches are sold discreetly or at temporary markets.

Fisheries officials say they are continuing enforcement drives despite staff shortages.

Several fishermen, speaking on condition of anonymity, ...