Crab collection has resumed in Satkhira Range of the Sundarbans after a two-month closure imposed to protect breeding and biodiversity, bringing renewed activity and hope to thousands of forest-dependent families. The seasonal ban, enforced during the peak breeding period, had halted crab collection across permitted rivers and canals, leaving many coastal families struggling financially. During the two-month ban, he took a loan of Tk 20,000 from a local moneylender to support his family. Crab collection remains prohibited year-round in specific canals, including Chhota Keyakhali Canal, Baro Keyakhali Canal, Kholshibunia Canal and Sapkhali Canal, as well as in waterways less than 25 feet wide. Assistant Conservator of Forests (ACF) for the West Sundarbans Satkhira Range, Md Mashiur Rahman, said the temporary ban was necessary to increase crab populations during the breeding season.

Source: Dhaka Tribune March 01, 2026 16:26 UTC