Sunamganj, Feb. 10 -- Unchecked fishing, including the reckless use of high-powered pumps to drain wetlands, is driving indigenous fish species in Jamalganj upazila towards extinction, sparking serious concerns over biodiversity loss.

Once brimming with native fish such as Ruhi, Katla, Chital, Boal, Shol, Gazar, Kali Baush, Tengra and Pabda, the haor region is now witnessing a sharp decline in fish stocks due to illegal fishing practices and environmental degradation.

Local residents and environmentalists point to excessive pesticide use, destructive fishing techniques like China duari and current nets, and large-scale wetland drainage as key contributors to the crisis.

Besides fish, other aquatic species, including snails and turtles,...