The complete ban on all kinds of fish netting during the breeding season that would continue till August 31 across the province, said the Director General Fisheries, Punjab, Muhammad Ashraf Chaudhary, on Sunday. He informed that the fishers, if violated the ban, would undergo six months imprisonment with a fine of Rs 5,000 each besides seizure of their catch and other paraphernalia.
He said the fisheries officials would conduct series of surprise raids on natural water areas across the province during close season, while the department has already launched a crackdown against illegal netting. He added that the several raiding teams have been constituted at district level to take strict action against those netting fish illegally.
Ashraf said during the breeding season, all species are laden with eggs, which needs natural environment for maximum growth and rearing. He also pointed out that during the breeding season fish produces less protein and loses taste.
He said a high level provincial team led by Director Dr. Sikandar Hayat Jehangir, has been constituted to monitor the overall performance of all raiding teams.