Solutions For Illegal Bangladeshi Fishing Problem Along the Naff River and Arakan Coast

Opinion January 23, 2026

Arakan Coast Guard Arresting Illegal Bangladeshi Fishing Boat

Arakan's seas and rivers hold rich gifts for its people. Fish, shrimp, and crabs feed families, support jobs, and keep traditions alive. For too long, these resources faced theft from outside. Illegal fishing by Bangladeshi boats along the Naff River and Arakan coast stands as a major problem that hurts local fishermen every day.

Bangladesh faces huge pressure. With millions of mouths to feed and shrinking resources at home, many turn to neighboring waters. Fishermen cross into India's territory with more fear because India has stronger patrols and penalties. In Arakan, the story differed for years. Past Myanmar authorities along the Naff River and coast often ignored the issue. Corruption ruled. Officials closed their eyes to large-scale illegal catches in exchange for small bribes or pocket money. They put personal gain above the needs of Arakanese fishing communities. This allowed Bangladeshi boats to take huge amounts of fish without real checks.

The damage went further. Large industrial ships from Thailand and Malaysia also operated close to the Arakan coast. These big vessels fished day and night, using advanced gear that swept the waters clean. Small local boats, run by families with simple nets, could not compete. Stocks dropped fast. Young fish died before growing. Traditional fishing grounds turned empty. Local fishermen returned home with lighter catches, harder to support their households. The old system favored outsiders and corrupt officials, not the people who depend on the sea.

Now change brings hope. The Arakkha government, under the United League of Arakan / Arakan Army, controls these waters. It takes protection seriously. Patrols increase. Rules tighten. Illegal boats face real consequences. The new authority shows clear will to stop theft and guard Arakan's resources for its own people. This shift marks progress. It ends the old days of looking away and starts a fairer era.

The solution lies in rules, not conflict. Both sides of the Naff River — Bangladesh and Arakan — must sit down for honest talks. A legal, fair deal can benefit everyone. Allow controlled fishing with clear limits: quotas, seasons, gear types, and shared profits. Such an agreement stops looting and builds trust. It lets Bangladeshi fishermen work legally while Arakan keeps its share. Local communities gain from steady income. Stocks recover when overfishing stops.

This approach needs strong enforcement on both sides. Bangladesh must control its boats and punish illegal crossers. Arakan must keep patrols firm but fair. Transparency matters. No more secret bribes. Only open, rule-based resource use can work.

Arakan's fishermen deserve this protection. Their lives tie directly to the Naff and the coast. Years of theft weakened them. Now, with better control, they can rebuild. Stocks may rise again. Catches can return to healthy levels. Families can plan for tomorrow without fear of empty nets.

The time for theft has passed. The time for fair sharing must begin. Leaders on both banks of the Naff River hold the power to make this change. A good deal protects Arakan's wealth, eases pressure on Bangladesh, and reduces tension between neighbors. In the end, the sea belongs to those who care for it wisely. Arakan now shows it will.