Electric shocks killing fish, destroying ecology in Wular lake: Naeem Akhtar

Srinagar, Nov 9: Peoples Democratic Party Constituency Incharge for Bandipora, Naeem Akhtar, on Sunday expressed deep concern over reports of fish deaths in Wular Lake, alleging that some miscreants are using electric gadgets to kill fish in large numbers, calling it a “disaster for both people and ecology.”

As per KNS, speaking to reporters, Akhtar said he had recently read about the issue in the newspapers and was alarmed by its impact on the local fishing community and the environment.

“I am very worried about it. I request the Lieutenant Governor and the Chief Minister to take this as a major crisis for the people, especially for all fishermen and other stakeholders. This is not just an economic issue, it’s a disaster for our ecology,” Akhtar said.

He said that certain individuals are using electric shock devices, commonly used in seas, to kill fish in bulk.  “I spoke to some people and they said that a few individuals have brought new gadgets that emit electric shocks to mass-kill fish. The dead fish may even reach the local markets,” he added.

Akhtar drew parallels with previous incidents involving the sale of rotten meat, saying, “Earlier we had the issue of rotten meat, and now this is a new tragedy. On one hand, people are being fed dead fish, and on the other, aquatic life is being destroyed.”

Calling it a serious blow to the local economy, Akhtar urged the administration to act swiftly. “I hope the Deputy Commissioner Bandipora, SSP Bandipora, and fisheries officers put their act together and take strict action against those responsible,” he said. Akhtar further said that protecting Wular Lake and its aquatic life is crucial for sustaining the livelihoods of thousands of people in the area.