Photo : TDM
The once flourishing fish population of the Jamuna River in Jamalpur is now teetering on the edge of extinction due to an environmental disaster and navigability concerns. The river, which was once abundant with the boirali or Shairali fish - a local delicacy, is witnessing a drastic decline in the species, pushing it to the endangered list.
Fishermen in the region, like Dulal from Motherganj, who used to thrive on catching the small and delectable fish, now lament the disappearance of their once lucrative catch. In the past, during floods in the Jamuna River, schools of small fish would emerge, attracting many buyers.
Winter season, in particular, was a time when these fish grew bigger and accumulated oil, making them exceptionally tasty and sought after in the area. Entertaining guests often revolved around serving this delicacy. However, these days, finding the boirali fish has become an arduous task, as they seem to have vanished from the river.
According to the Directorate of Fisheries and District Fisheries Office, the scientific name of this local treasure is Berylius Barila and it primarily inhabits freshwater bodies. While it was commonly found in the rivers Teesta and Dharla originating from the mountains, it could also be found in limited quantities in the Jamuna and Brahmaputra rivers, specifically in their Teesta-Dharla tributaries.
Characterized by a maximum length of 6-7 inches or 10 cm and a width of approximately 1 inch, the boirali fish boasts a silver-colored body with small scales and a light-colored back. A distinguishing yellow spot can be found under its belly. The fish has soft fins, though it does have spines like other fish and breeding occurs during the summer season.
Sobahan Mia, the prominent Balijuri fish market trader in Madarganj upazila, expressed his concern over the scarcity of the Shairali fish. On the rare occasions it is available, it is sold at a premium, fetching prices ranging from Tk 1,000 to 1,200 per kg. Such is the demand that many people book in advance to secure this coveted delicacy.
The decline of the Boirali fish population in the Jamuna River is raising alarms among locals and authorities. Environmentalists and fisheries experts are urging comprehensive actions to address the root causes of the decline and ensure the survival of this iconic fish species.
TDM/SD
