GUWAHATI: The Assam government has imposed a prohibitory order under Section 144 of the Criminal Procedure Code to curb illegal fishing and protect aquatic resources. The order was passed by the District Commissioner of Cachar, Mridul Yadav, on Wednesday, April 2.
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Aimed at preventing overfishing and regulating the use of fishing nets, the order has aligned with the Assam Fishery Rules, 1953 (Amendment 2005), as it seeks to ensure the sustainability of fish populations by restricting harmful fishing practices in the district.
The use of specific fishing nets that do not comply with prescribed specifications has been particularly prohibited. Fishing gear such as Berjal, Mahajal, and Fasijal with a bar size smaller than 7 cm (mesh size less than 14 cm) has been banned in proclaimed fisheries from April 1 to July 15.
Additionally, Mosarijal nets with a bar size below 1 cm (mesh size less than 2 cm) have been strictly prohibited throughout the year in these fisheries to prevent indiscriminate fishing.
Another focus of the directive pertains to the protection of Brood fish—those carrying eggs and sperms—of species such as Rohu, Catla, Mrigal, Chital, Pithia, Gharia, Kharias, Gonia, and Kaliyara. Catching these species has been strictly forbidden during their breeding season, from April 1 to July 15.
To further support conservation efforts, the sale and capture of fish below specific sizes have also been restricted. Fish species such as Rohu, Catla, Mrigal, Chital, Kharia, Pithia, and Gharia under 23 cm (9 inches) and Kaliyara, Gonia, and Bata under 10 cm (3.9 inches) cannot be caught or sold from August 1 to October 31.
The authorities have emphasised that these restrictions are essential for sustainable fisheries management and warned that any violations will lead to strict legal action.
