A big Hilsa fish has been sold for 6,000 taka in Mirzaganj, Patuakhali. The fish was caught in the Payra River by fisherman Nirab Howlader in the early hours of Sunday (August 17). Later, at around 10 am, he brought the fish to the Subidkhali Fish Shop.

Haren Babu, a trader at the Subidkhali Fish Shop, said that such a big Hilsa is not often found in this market. Local businessman Zakir Hossain bought the fish at the auction for 6,000 taka. Many people crowded the shop to see the fish. Buyer Zakir Hossain said, “Such a big Hilsa is rarely caught now. I hope I can sell it at a good price. Let’s see how much profit I make.”

Since the fish weighs 820 grams per kilogram, the price per kilogram is about 2,800 taka. The fish was purchased for a total of 6,000 taka including commission. However, ordinary buyers are disappointed due to the high price. Local buyer Aslam Hossain said, “Buying hilsa at 3,000 taka per kg is now not possible for low-income people like us. Earlier, we used to buy large hilsa at least once a month, but now it is becoming impossible.”

Mirzaganj Upazila Senior Fisheries Officer Md. Mahfuzur Rahman said, “This is mainly the result of the ban. Large hilsa is more available in the deep sea. However, the number of large hilsa is decreasing due to excessive catching of small hilsa, reduced water flow, dams-sluice gates, illegal nets, water pollution and climate change.” He added that large hilsa is high in fat, omega-3 and vitamins, which are beneficial for heart disease, eye problems and the brain.