Spawn of Carp Eggs: Pollution-free Halda raises breeders’ hopes

Around a thousand fish egg collectors at Halda river, a unique natural breeding ground for carp fish in South Asia, are hoping for a high yield this year due to drop in pollution following the countrywide shutdown to tackle Covid-19.

However, they are worried about selling their possible haul because of the current situation.

Md Elias (55), a seasoned egg collector from Chattogram's Hathazari upazila, told The Daily Star that they were praying for a late spawning season, ideally in May.

"As pollution and human activity have dropped significantly, we're hoping for a big haul," he said.

He also urged the government to take steps so that the eggs do not get ruined.

Prompt vigilance by local administration, shutdown of key pollution sources last year and the shutdown have helped the river detoxify itself, said Prof Manzoorul Kibria, eminent Halda researcher and zoology professor at Chittagong University.

He said recent efforts and the coincidental shutdown is a boon for the river, raising hopes for a big haul.

However, the first phase of collection (locally known as "joe"), which was from April 7-13, did not see any spawning.

Now, collectors are optimistic of the second joe, expected to run from April 18-24. If gusty winds, downpours and thunderstorms occur during the timeframe, brood fish will lay eggs, as the environment is congenial for spawning.

When the first phase does not see much spawning, the second phase provides good yield, said the professor.

Prof Kibria said due to the shutdown, transportation of eggs might be restricted, so the government has to provide a resolution.

Ruhul Amin, Hathazari upazila nirbahi officer, told The Daily Star that they were planning to set up a temporary egg market, maintaining social distancing, to resolve the matter.