Celebratory Exception: Kaziranga Lifts Fishing Ban for Two Hours to Cherish Local Tradition Before Joyous Magh Bihu
In response to community sentiments, the Kaziranga administration briefly lifted its ban on community fishing, allowing local residents to fish for two hours on Monday morning, from 8 to 10 am. This decision came ahead of the Bhogali Bihu festivities and was largely influenced by local demands and traditions, despite no formal directive being issued. Locals emphasized the importance of fishing during Uruka and expressed frustration over the closure of revenue beels, which restricted access to fresh local fish.
The relaxation eased tensions for many, yet highlighted longstanding disputes between the community and authorities over fishing bans. A local resident applauded the move, noting the cultural significance and economic necessity of fishing for the poorer population. However, on Sunday, a gathering of around 150-200 locals at the fishing spots led to confrontations with authorities, resulting in some arrests after minor skirmishes.
In parallel, the Bokakhat co-district administration enforced a strict ban on entering Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve’s protected areas, including its beels, lakes, and water bodies, prohibiting all fishing activities within these confines. Only officials, forest guards, and security personnel on duty are exempt from this restriction.
The Kaziranga forest department expressed concerns about outsiders from nearby districts exploiting community fishing for commercial gain. These “business-minded” individuals allegedly use advanced fishing gear and exploit local contacts to enter the park, raising fears of information misuse by anti-social elements and poachers. The department stressed the need to curb such activities to protect the region’s delicate ecosystem and prevent potential poaching incidents.
This temporary relaxation highlights the delicate balance between preserving local traditions and ensuring the protection of Kaziranga’s natural reserves, underscoring the ongoing tension between community needs and conservation efforts.
Original Source: https://assamtribune.com/assam/kaziranga-eases-fishing-ban-for-two-hours-to-honour-local-tradition-ahead-of-magh-bihu-1564708
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Publish Date: 2025-01-13 18:20:00
