Baramulla: The Fisheries Department Baramulla on Friday carried out a large-scale fish seed stocking drive across Wular Lake and adjoining water bodies in Sopore, Pattan, Rafiabad, Watlab, Jahama, Ningli, and other important points of the district.
Details available with news agency JKNS stated that over five lakh seeds of Carp and Schizothorax varieties were released under the supervision of Assistant Director Fisheries Baramulla, Showkat Ahmed, in presence of field teams from Sopore and other areas.
Speaking to media as per news agency JKNS, Assistant Director Showkat Ahmed said the stocking was done as part of the department’s annual replenishment drive to support aquatic biodiversity and enhance livelihood opportunities for thousands of local fishermen.
“This annual exercise involves the release of at least five lakh fish seed in Wular and adjoining water bodies including stretches of river Jhelum. Our objective is to maintain the ecological balance and boost fish production for the benefit of fishermen who are entirely dependent on Wular,” he said.
He said that Wular Lake alone is home to over 20 fish varieties, including Trout and Carp, which are important for both ecological and economic reasons. “More than 10,000 families are either directly or indirectly dependent on Wular for their livelihood,” Showkat added.
The Assistant Director also highlighted that 100 private fishery units have already been set up under the Holistic Agriculture Development Programme (HADP) to support young entrepreneurs in fish farming. “Awareness drives are regularly conducted and youth are also being sent on exposure visits to improve their understanding of modern fishery techniques,” he informed.
Members of the local fishing community expressed their satisfaction and gratitude, stating that the stocking drive would go a long way in reviving fish population and improving their income prospects.
“This department is very vital for us. We are happy they came here, involved us, and showed concern for our future. We hope the coming season brings prosperity for the entire fisherman community,” one local said.
Officials said such stocking and support initiatives will continue in the coming months to ensure sustained fish production and welfare of fishing-dependent families across the region. (JKNS)