Daijiworld Media Network – Puttur

Puttur, Nov 7: Authorities in Uppinangady have taken firm action against illegal fishing activities along the Kumaradhara river. On November 6, village panchayat development officer Wilfred Lawrence Rodrigues led an operation to evict a group of fishermen from another district who had set up a temporary camp near the Kumaradhara bridge to catch fish.

Rodrigues issued a clear directive prohibiting fishing within the Uppinangady Gram Panchayat limits, warning that strict legal action would follow if violations continued.

In earlier years, the Netravati and Kumaradhara rivers were known for their rich fish resources. However, in recent times, rampant fishing practices such as using nets, traps, and even boats during nighttime hours had become common among some locals.

Adding to the problem, groups of professional fishermen from other districts would arrive annually, set up makeshift camps along the riverbank, and engage in large-scale fishing using small boats. They reportedly caught and sold buckets of fish daily in nearby markets.

Officials noted that such unregulated activities had led to the depletion of aquatic resources and increased river pollution. There were also allegations that some groups used chemical substances to enhance fish catch, posing further ecological risks.

Responding to these concerns, the gram panchayat intervened and cleared the area. Officials have now cautioned that any future instances of fishing within the Panchayat limits will invite legal action.

Gram panchayat staff members Srinivas and Isaac assisted in the operation.