Traditional community fishing during Bhogali (Magh) Bihu has been prohibited in the wetlands of Kaziranga National Park (KNP) following a directive from the Gauhati High Court. In response to this order, KNP and Tiger Reserve officials convened with the Golaghat district administration, local authorities from Kaliabar, and residents to inform the public about the ban and discuss its enforcement. The prohibition is enforced strictly in the National Park’s jurisdiction, as these wetlands are critical fish breeding grounds for Assam.
Dr. Sonali Ghosh, Field Director of KNPTR, emphasized that traditional fishing activities will no longer be permitted in Kaziranga’s wetlands due to the court order. She mentioned that local authorities will ramp up awareness campaigns on wildlife protection in the coming days, highlighting the wetlands’ importance for fish populations.
Additionally, ahead of the Magh Bihu festival, the Assam government’s Fishery Department has instructed district commissioners to implement price controls on fish, ensuring vendors sell at approved rates. An official directive from January 6 mandates that monitoring teams be established to supervise fish markets, aimed at ensuring compliance with these guidelines during the festive season.
