Dhaka, Oct. 15 -- Fishers are reportedly casting "two to three times more" nets than usual in the Meghna River in Barishal, despite an official ban on catching, transporting and marketing hilsa to protect brood fish.

Allegations point to the influence of two Hizla Upazila BNP leaders, who deny any role in the situation.

They do not, however, deny that nets are being cast and hilsa caught during the ban.

Fishers, wholesalers and traders say hilsa is reaching the market and selling for less than usual.

The Department of Fisheries, the Upazila administration and River Police run regular drives during the ban, but cite their own manpower limitations for their inability to keep pace. The Bangladesh Coast Guard is conducting separate operat...