Reportage

In Cox’s Bazaar and its surrounding islands like Sonadia, Kutubdia and Maheshkhali, the fishing industry is a profitable business. For many local islanders, it is their main profession. Others are equally attracted to this trade, leading to a steady trickle of migrant workers from adjoining areas.

Just before dawn, the sun is yet to peep. The shadowy figures of some fishermen and some fishing boats emerge. All around there is din and bustle; sensible is the iron spirit of some hectic fishermen. These boats crowd to the shore often after being off shore for several days. Thousands of fishermen survive solely on these boats. These fishermen weave an epic of distress and sorrow floating in the indifferent tide and ebb of sea with their bitter sweat and saline waters. They battle with reoccurring cyclones, international piracy, and fluctuating socioeconomics – all unmatched nemeses. And yet, morning after morning, they return home to the sea.

All images copyright © Saad Shahriar
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