The action has been taken to stop smuggling of hilsha out of the country by some dishonest traders through unauthorised routes in south-western region, they said.

The unauthorised wholesale markets in Rupsha fish market at Natun Bazar in Khulna city are being run by Khulna City Corporation.

Joint forces got allegations from some genuine fish traders that trawlers laden with hilsha are being forced to land at Rupsha fish market by dishonest traders instead of unloading those at Skid Ghat.

Officials of joint forces met the Chief Executive Officer of Khulna City Corporation at his office last week to know why unauthorised wholesale markets at Rupsha fish market are being run.

The KCC CEO however blamed a group of influential political leaders in the area for running those unauthorised wholesale markets. He could not show any document in support of running the markets, the sources said.

Other sources said that illegal toll was collected from traders in the unauthorized markets.

A team from detective branch of Khulna Metropolitan Police has been assigned to monitor whether the restriction is carried out or not, sources said.

Hilsha fish is being sold at Tk 450 a kg in Khulna although there is plenty supply of supply the fish for about a month. The price increased due to smuggling, some genuine traders said.