Extreme Dry Spell Sparks Considerations Over Fish Manufacturing in Kashmir

SRINAGAR: As a result of harsh, dry winter that Kashmir Valley is at the moment experiencing, consultants are nervous about how this may occasionally have an effect on the area’s fish manufacturing.

They mentioned the bizarre absence of rain or snow is disrupting the fragile stability of water our bodies, and would possibly endanger fish. Nevertheless, the fisheries division contends that manufacturing has steadily elevated over the previous 4 years and is anticipated to rise additional within the upcoming season.

Dr Imtiaz Ahmed Khan, Chief Proctor at Kashmir College and famend Ichthyologist mentioned the impact of the dry spell on fish in Kashmir is clear.

When the water stage decreases, it forces the fish out of their consolation zone, he mentioned, including, “In winter, fish normally keep in decrease water zones the place the temperature is increased in comparison with the higher layers of water. The lower in water depth impacts the temperature stratification zone, disrupting the fish’s consolation.”

Dr Khan mentioned that in working water, oxygen change happens, and diet comes from the catchment space, benefiting each stagnant and flowing water. “Nevertheless, throughout dry climate, water from the catchment space doesn’t attain, affecting the fish. Within the breeding season, in case you kill a single fish, you’re liable for killing tons of of fish,” he mentioned.

“Pure fish breeding in Kashmir normally occurs in February and March. The dry spell impacts fish breeding in addition to manufacturing on account of lowered water ranges, disrupting the particular breeding spots of fish,” he added.

In the meantime, a Fisheries Division official advised KNO that the fish manufacturing in J&Ok has witnessed a considerable surge within the final 4 years and is predicted to extend additional within the coming season.

“The fish manufacturing in Kashmir has elevated by 5840 tons, producing 366.12 lakhs of income throughout this era,” the official mentioned.

He added, “The manufacturing of trout has elevated from 598 tons in 2019 to 1990 tons in the course of the monetary yr 2022-23. To boost fish productiveness, the division imports fish seed from overseas international locations. 1144 Trout Rearing Items have been arrange within the non-public sector, and 56% (611 items) have been established within the final 4 years to generate employment alternatives for the youth.”—(KNO)