On the corner of a crowded and noisy floor, a bespectacled man was calling out bids for a basket of Hilsa fish. He repeated the prices quoted by traders in a loud, rhythmic tone: “1,400-1,420-1,450…”
Do you love hilsa eggs? If so, you’re not alone. For many families, especially the little ones at home, these delicate, flavourful eggs are a cherished treat. But this season, getting your hands on this once-affordable delicacy may prove a real challenge.
The price of hilsa in the southern region of the nation has increased by Tk 2,000 a maund (37 kilogrammes) after the government approved exports of the fish to India.
The permission will remain in place until October 30
Hilsa experts have said that cyclone Sitrang has created a safe environment for the propagation of the fish even though it has caused heavy destruction in the coastal areas.
The government is going to impose a 22-day ban on catching, selling, hoarding and transporting of hilsa from October 7 across the country to protect safe spawning of the fish during its peak breeding period.
The government has decided to export Hilsa fish to India ahead of the country’s biggest religious festival Durga Puja scheduled to be celebrated next month.
After the ban of 65 consecutive days, fishermen are finding bounties of hilsa in their nets. Having overcome the recession of the last two years, fishermen, trawler owners and traders are smiling at the abundance of hilsa.
Shankar Dey, a mid-ranking government officer in south Kolkata’s Deshopriya Park locality, makes it a point to browse the nearby Lake Market early every morning in search of quality fish.
Comes Pahela Baishakh, comes opportunity for hilsa hoarders.