To enhance the fish production in the State, the Government has taken up 5 Fish Development Projects in Chenab, Jhelum, Kishanganga, Suru and Sindh rivers.In this regard, the National Hydro Power Corporation (NHPC) has provided Rs16.25 crore as compensation of affected water bodies in these rivers.The information was given out in an officers meeting of Fisheries Department which was chaired by Minster for Fisheries, Animal and Sheep Husbandry Department, Abdul Gani Kohli, here today.Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal and Sheep Husbandry, Mir Zahoor Ahmad Mir was also present in the meeting.The meeting was informed that construction of these fish projects would help compensate the losses of fish production caused due to the erection of barrage across the rivers for hydroelectric projects undertaken by the NHPC.Briefing the Minister about the progress on these fish projects, it was said that construction work on Fish Development Project Salamabad, Uri has been taken up at a cost of Rs 6.35 crore, construction work of Fish Development project at Wanpora, Gurez and Atwathoo, Bandipora at a cost of Rs 6.31 crore, besides work on Fish Development Project Chutak in Kargil at a cost of 1.80 crore, work on Nimmo-Bazgo in Leh taken up at a cost of Rs 1.19 crore, while as work on Fish project Sewa-II and Kathua was taken up at a cost of Rs 60 lakh.
It was given out that the Department is also contemplating to construct three more Fish Development Projects at Baglihar, Rattle and Karthai hydro electric projects to compensate the losses in fish production and has forwarded DPRs of Rs 17.62 crore to the NHPC for sanction of funds. It was informed that release of funds for the purpose are under active consideration of NHPC authorities and once the approval of funds is received from the concerned Corporation the necessary work would be also taken up.Reviewing the progress of the Department, Abdul Gani Kohli underscored the need for increase in fish production in the State, adding that fish is alternate for mutton and poultry and is beneficial for good health.He said fish rearing is fruitful to increase the economy of weaker sections and the department should encourage such people to opt for this profession.The Minister asked the officers to ensure strict implementation of welfare schemes meant for fishermen community and stressed for setting up of fish rearing units in far-off areas of the State. He directed the concerned to make a thorough survey for establishment of modern hatcheries in watered areas for rearing high quality fish seeds.The Minister also directed the functionaries to work in tandem and achieve the targets well in time, which he said would also help in income generation for the department.Secretary Animal, Sheep Husbandry and Fisheries, Director Fisheries, Joint Director Project were among senior officers who attended the meeting.