Breeding season: Ban on unauthorised fishing in Mangla Dam

Only those with permission cards and valid licences allowed.

MIRPUR:

Local authorities have imposed a ban on unauthorised fishing in Mangla Dam during the breeding season, ending August.

According to an official order issued by Additional District Magistrate, unauthorised fishing through all means including nets and “pattis” have been banned under Section 144, and violators will be tried under Section 188 of Azad Penal Code. However, members of AJK Anglers Association, a local non-governmental organisation, and those with permission cards and valid licenses are exempted from the ban.

Local authorities said the prohibitory steps have been taken under the AJK Wildlife Act for the protection of breeding fish and young fry.

Amateur fishermen expressed surprise and concern over the restriction.

Meanwhile, Anglers Association Mirpur President and Mirpur Division Game Warden, Muhammad Ramzan Dutt, told the Express Tribune that in order to keep the dam’s fish population sustainable amateur hunters should desist from illegal fishing in the breeding season - which lasts from May to August.

The game warden also emphasised the need for extensive measures to discourage and remove pollution from water in seasonal streams that drain into the Poonch River from areas in its 62 kilometer radius.

Published in The Express Tribune, May 23^rd, 2012.