Bangladesh Navy to Remove Illegal Shrimp Farms from Sonadia

The Bangladesh Navy has set its sights on removing illegal shrimp farms that have proliferated across Sonadia, a strategically important coastal region in the southeast. Officials say the unauthorised aquaculture operations have encroached on protected waters and violated environmental regulations governing the area.

Sonadia, located off the Cox's Bazar coast, has long been subject to competing claims between conservation interests and commercial fishing activities. The shrimp farming operations have expanded without proper licences or environmental clearance, prompting the naval intervention.

Authorities argue the illegal farms threaten the region's fragile ecosystem and compromise its value as a natural sanctuary. The eviction operation is expected to proceed in phases, with naval teams conducting surveys to document the extent of unauthorised activity.

Local communities dependent on shrimp farming have expressed concerns about potential displacement, though government officials maintain that legitimate, licensed operations will be permitted to continue under stricter oversight. The Navy has indicated it will coordinate with relevant civilian agencies to ensure a structured transition during the clearance process.