Watch Illegal blast fishing destroying Mahanadi ecosystem in Sonepur

The dangerous and illegal act of fishing by means of causing explosion in water bodies has become a cause of serious concern for people in Sonepur.

As per the allegations, the local mafia in Binika area of the district has been using blast fishing to catch fish in a rampant manner in Mahanadi river. 

The unbridled explosions are not only causing destruction to the aquatic ecosystem in the river but also polluting its water and leading to serious setbacks to the livelihood of thousands of fishermen community in the region, said locals.  

According to sources, miscreants are exploding dynamite or other types of chemical explosives to catch fish from the river and it is suspected to be causing serious health hazards.

Environmentalists have also expressed concerns that such methods of fishing destroy habitats of aquatic wildlife, killing animals indiscriminately and reducing fishing catches. 

What’s more shocking is that it not only kills fish but also destroys other species of water animals.

 

Locals have further alleged that despite sincere requests to the administration to curb the cases of blast fishing, no one is bothered to listen to their pleas.

"Fishing is our lifeline but people of all ages are involved in blast fishing in the river, so much so that after failing to earn a good livelihood, our children are forced to go out of state in search of income," rued a local fisherman Ram Jhankar. 

Rabindra Badhei, president of Fishermen Association Binika said they are ready to launch a massive protest in the coming days if their issues are not resolved at the earliest. 

On the other hand, the police have assured to take stringent action against those found guilty in the case.