DHEMAJI, May 10 - Rampant fishing in the natural waterbodies of Jonai sub-division in Dhemaji district has been going on in recent times by flouting the Fishery Act with impunity, the socially conscious section of citizens here have reported.
Expressing anguish over the alleged inaction of the Fishery Department to such a state of affairs, it is also reported that a section of unscrupulous fishermen, who survive by fishing and agricultural activities, regularly catch egg-laden fish from the natural ponds, wetlands, lakes and perennial rivers of the area for selling in the open markets set up in different localities of Jonai sub-division.
It is alleged that the unscrupulous traders by taking advantages of the Fishery Department�s inert role have been happily carrying on their business, which is posing threat to indigenous fish species.
�Rude fishing in the natural waterbodies by using dense nets and electric sparks are rampant in Jonai sub-division, but the Fishery Department officials have not intervened over such destructive practices,� rued an environmentalist of Jonai, who did not wish to be named.
As per provision of the Assam Fishery Rules, 1953 (as amended), the local administration has imposed some restrictions on the use of nets for catching fish in Dhemaji district with effect from April 1 to July 15 next. Thus, use of borjal, majujal, phansijal and any other type of net with mesh less than 7 cm bar and 14 cm mesh are prohibited during the period. But the authority concerned has miserably failed to restrain the illegal practice in the rural areas.
According to norms, catching of brood fish of the following species, namely Rohu, Catla, Mrigal, Mali, Sitol, Kharia, Pithia, Gharia and Kurhi is usually prohibited from May 1 upto July 15 of the year in the natural water bodies and any other proclaimed fishery. The NGOs of have therefore urged the Dhemaji administration to take effective step against the violators and ensure strict implementation of the Fishery Act.
