In a commendable initiative aimed at sustaining the ecosystem of the renowned Srinagar Dal Lake, the Fisheries Department introduced well over six lakh live fish seeds – primarily Common Carp seeds.
This relaxed and acceptable act of restoration helps supply the fragile ecosystems of the lake whilst ensuring the interests of local licensed fishermen. This is a commendable transference from conservation to responsibly supporting a community.
The Dal Lake, now fully anglicized to, The Jewel of Srinagar, is an attractive residence for various species and a source of income for many. The biological diversity around it has increasingly become threatened by pollution, encroachment, and over fishing over the years.
Common Carp as one of the hardy species and contributing its ecological value to the ecosystem, will further enhance the populations of fish, control aquatic weeds, enhance water quality, and support the biological functioning or processes of the lake, so in the hopes that the lake continues to be an ecological system for many years to come.
In addition, the program is indicative of the department’s commitment to fostering responsible fishing.
By augmenting the fish stock, the authorities maintain the interests of the local fishermen who depend on the lake as vital source of income.
A healthy fish population ensures sustenance of catch and provides licensed fishermen access to pursue their vocation without draining the lake. Conservation with sustainable income opportunity should be a model for others to follow.
One could state more and better steps should be put in place to face Dal Lake issues, such pollution, urbanisation, etc. These are all valid but, the proactive step taken by the Fisheries Department can be seen as only a step to restore and continue conservation of this natural asset.
Seed release is a very definite and immediate action which brings benefits on the one hand and has longer term benefits also, it is an example of proof that every little bit makes the a journey.
The Government should be recognised for its emphasis on the environment but with a clear emphasis of also providing economic opportunity to local people.
The point to take home is that ecological wise conservation and need for humanity’s welfare, should go hand in glove. As these newly introduced fishes mature and add to the lakes biota, let this issue continue to be something which brings attention to local citizens, influence policy makers, and bring environmentalists together to benefit the vibrancy of the Dal Lake for future generations.
