Sheikh Anees
GANDERBAL: Despite repeated assurances from the Fisheries department, illegal fishing in Nallah Sindh at Wussan and Chinner areas of central Kashmir’s District Ganderbal remains a rampant issue in the area.
Locals have expressed outrage and disappointment at the Fisheries department’s apparent inaction in addressing the issue.
The use of illegal fishing nets, electric shock, and different types of hooks has become a common practice in the area.
Locals alleged that the Fisheries department guards who are supposed to be monitoring the area are nowhere to be seen, raising questions about the effectiveness of the department’s monitoring mechanisms.
The department’s claims of strict monitoring ring hollow when we see the rampant illegal fishing taking place right under their noses, said a local resident Sharif Ahmad.
The illegal fishing practice has raised concerns about the department’s commitment to protecting the fish population and the ecosystem Sharif said.
The issue of illegal fishing in Nallah Sindh is not an isolated one place Similar cases have been reported in other areas of Ganderbal district as the Fisheries department’s failure to address the issue has raised concerns about the long-term consequences for the region’s aquatic ecosystem
The department needs to take concrete steps to prevent illegal fishing and protect the fish population, said a local environmental activist.
In response to these allegations, Fisheries Ganderbal Mohammad Aslam assured that the department is taking steps to address the issue.
Our field staff is on the job to stop this illegal practice, and anyone found involved will be dealt with under the law.
