Crackdown on Illegal Fishing in Assam’s Kokrajhar District Amid Breeding Season Restrictions

Kokrajhar, Assam: Despite strict regulations imposed by the fisheries department, a group of fish traders in Assam’s Kokrajhar district, particularly in Gossaigaon, have been apprehended for engaging in illegal fishing activities in local rivers and subsequently selling their catch in markets.

Authorities, acting under directives from the Kokrajhar District Fisheries Development Officer, recently conducted surprise raids at the Gossaigaon sub-divisional daily markets. These operations were aimed at curbing the illicit sale of pona fish and other varieties harvested from nearby water bodies.

According to Badiyur Zaman Fakir, a fisheries exhibitor, fishing using nets or other equipment in rivers and ponds is strictly prohibited during the breeding season from April 1 to July 15, as mandated by the Assam Fisheries Policy. This period is crucial for fish breeding, aimed at ensuring the sustainable growth of fish populations.

Despite clear guidelines and warnings, some traders continued to violate these regulations, prompting swift action from the fisheries department. The crackdown underscores efforts to protect fish colonies during their reproductive cycle, thereby maintaining ecological balance and preserving aquatic biodiversity.

The fisheries department has reiterated its commitment to enforcing these restrictions rigorously and has called for public cooperation in adhering to the seasonal bans on fishing. These measures are crucial in safeguarding the natural habitats of fish and promoting their long-term conservation across Assam’s water bodies.

The crackdown on illegal fishing activities in Kokrajhar district serves as a reminder of the importance of responsible fishing practices to sustainably manage aquatic resources for future generations. Authorities continue to monitor and take strict actions against violators to uphold environmental integrity and biodiversity conservation efforts in the region.