DHUBRI, Oct 21 - The prices of Hilsa fish have dropped in Dhubri district, causing concern for people associated with fish trading. During the past few days, prices of Hilsa fish have started dipping abnormally in various markets of the district. The fall in Hilsa price can be attributed to rampant and unscientific fishing in the Brahmaputra.
Every year the markets of Dhubri district are filled with Hilsa fish and the variety that normally costs Rs 900 to 1,200 per kg, is now being sold in the markets in the range of Rs 150-Rs 350 per kg.
Hilsa fishes generally travel upstream during October to this part of Assam to lay eggs, but due to rampant fishing they get caught during the juvenile stage or when they are pregnant with eggs. Considering the gravity of the situation, the Director of Fisheries last year vide a notification had prohibited fishing of Hilsa from October to December in a bid to conserve this species. Despite the order, a section of people started fishing in the Brahmaputra by defying the order.
�This year the prices of Hilsa have dropped abnormally due to rampant fishing in the Brahmaputra,� a section of traders observed while sharing their veiws with this Correspondent. They also said that the demand for Hilsa fish has been increasing in Assam and its adjoining States owing to its taste, and, therefore, more and more quantities have started flowing from Bangladesh to meet the surging demand.
Interacting with this Correspondent, Deputy Commissioner Anant Lal Gyani said that the district administration would take appropriate steps on this extensive fishing spree in the Brahmaputra. �I will soon review the situation and take all necessary action to curb this kind of fishing in the Brahmaputra for ensuring better Hilsa production,� he added.
