Trout deaths trigger alarm in Ganderbal’s Sindh waters

Ganderbal, Jan 22: Hundreds of trout fish were found dead at multiple locations along Nallah Sindh in Ganderbal district on Thursday, triggering concern among locals and environmental activists over alleged illegal fishing practices.

The dead fish were reported from areas including Chinner, Preng and Wussan. Residents alleged that miscreants were using harmful chemicals, including bleaching powder, to kill fish, causing serious damage to the fragile aquatic ecosystem.

“This is not the first time such an incident has occurred. Every year, trout are killed in Nallah Sindh using bleaching powder and other chemicals,” said Raja Parvaiz, a local social activist.

He said the repeated use of chemicals has led to a sharp decline in fish population in the river and posed a threat to water quality.

Locals further alleged that with the water level in the nallah receding, illegal fishing activities have increased. “People are using bleaching powder and other unlawful methods to catch fish, while enforcement remains weak,” said another resident, adding that such practices not only violate fisheries norms but also endanger human and animal life by polluting water sources.

Officials of the Fisheries Department said investigations had been initiated to ascertain the exact cause of the fish deaths. “One possible reason could be the reduced water level, but we are examining all aspects,” a fisheries official said, adding that strict action would be taken against anyone found guilty.

Deputy Commissioner Ganderbal, Jatin Kishore, said concerned departments had been directed to intensify field inspections to curb illegal fishing. “Instructions have been issued to check and stop such practices in Nallah Sindh and elsewhere. Anyone found indulging in illegal fishing will be dealt with strictly under the law,” he said.