Dhaka:  A 22-day ban on catching, selling, transportation and hoarding of hilsa begins on Wednesday for conservation of mother fishes during its peak breeding season.

The ban imposed by the Fisheries and Livestock Ministry will continue until 2 November in 27 districts.

The 27 districts are Chandpur, Lakshmipur, Noakhali, Feni, Chittagong, Cox’s Bazar, Barisal, Bhola, Patuakhali, Barguna, Pirojpur, Jhalakati, Bagerhat, Shariatpur, Brahmanbaria, Dhaka, Madaripur, Faridpur, Rajbari, Jamalpur, Narayanganj, Narshingdi, Manikganj, Munshiganj, Khulna, Kushtia and Rajshahi.

After taking the decision on imposing the ban on 2 October Fisheries and Livestock Minister M Sayedul Haq said the decision was taken to boost hilsha production through protection of mother fish during its peak breeding season.

The minister also urged fishermen not to catch hilsa during this period.

Legal actions will be taken against those who will violate the ban.

Mobile court drives will be conducted in wholesale markets, kitchen markets and super shops to prevent selling of hilsa.