A geopolitical crisis in Bangladesh has led to a severe fish supply shortage in Delhi’s Chittaranjan Park, pushing prices to unprecedented levels and impacting local menus. The turmoil began after Sheikh Hasina resigned as Bangladesh’s Prime Minister on August 5, 2024, halting seafood exports from the country.
CR Park, a hub for Bengali culture and cuisine in South Delhi, is facing a significant shortage of its beloved fish varieties. The halt in imports from Bangladesh has led to a dramatic increase in prices and a scarcity of high-demand species like Padma Ilish (hilsa) and Dhakai Pabda. Shopkeepers in the area report that while local alternatives are available, they are not a satisfactory substitute for the authentic cross-border catch.
“The Bengali community in CR Park prefers the original varieties from Bangladesh and is willing to pay premium prices,” said Dulal Chandra, a local fish vendor. “Even with local options available, they find them lacking in taste and quality.”
Since the export ban, there has been a noticeable drop in the availability of fish like ilish, shol, padba, shing, and koi. Shopkeepers are struggling to meet demand and are often forced to charge higher prices for the limited supplies they have. “The few fish available are often stale, and prices have soared,” said Pradeep Manna, a fish seller in the market.
The shortage comes at a particularly challenging time as the Durga Puja festival approaches, which relies heavily on ilish for traditional dishes. Local residents and restaurant owners are concerned that the continuing crisis could dampen the festive spirit. “If the situation doesn’t improve, it could significantly impact our Durga Puja celebrations,” warned Nirmalendu Dutta, secretary of CR Park’s residents’ welfare association.
As cross-border tensions and trade restrictions continue, the local fish market faces uncertainty, with the community hoping for a resolution before the festival season.
source-Hindustan Times
