Fishermen demand security
The fishermen in the coastal areas yesterday demanded their security in the sea as the pirates have become alarmingly active of late.
Speaking at the Coastal Fishermen's Festival, they claimed that at present there are seven to eight groups of pirates active in the Bay of Bengal who are not only taking their fishes and belongings away, but also tying fishermen up and throwing them in the sea.
Community Development Centre is organising the three-day festival at Baharchhara in the town.
Finance Minister AMA Muhith inaugurated the festival by lightening candles.
Former adviser to a caretaker government Rasheda K Chowdhury, Director of Manusher Jonno Foundation Rina Roy and District Commissioner Mohammad Gias Uddin Ahmed were also present.
Abdul Nabi, a fisherman of Nuniyachhata village, said there is no government security force to protect the fishermen. As the members of naval forces and coast guard do not go deep into the sea, pirates roam around at large, he added.
President of Cox's Bazaar Fishing Boat Owners' Association Muzibur Rahman said a total of 38 fishermen fell victims to the pirates in 2009.
Speaking at the programme, Finance Minister AMA Muhith said the government is keen to ensure the fishermen's rights and security.
The government has taken different steps to ensure their economic development, he added.
Comments