More than 4 lakh fingerlings released into Dikhu river

MOKOKCHUNG — More than four lakh fingerlings, including mahseer and Indian major carp, were released into the Dikhu River (Tzüla) on Tuesday in a collaborative effort by the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources and the Tzüla (Dikhu) Green Zone Project Management Committee.

The fingerlings were released by Rongsenungba, the director of fisheries and aquatic resources, in the presence of village council members from Longsa and Ungma villages. The event was part of an awareness programme on river ranching (stocking of fingerlings in riverine system) in Nagaland, held at Ngaboi Recreational Point, Dikhu, Mokokchung.

Speaking on the occasion, Rongsenungba acknowledged that the Tzüla (Dikhu) Green Zone Project, undertaken by the villages of Longsa and Ungma, is an exemplary initiative that has influenced numerous similar projects throughout the state. He praised the project’s contribution to global efforts to mitigate climate change and global warming and commended the two village councils for their work.

However, he also cautioned about the consequences of unchecked global warming and climate change. He predicted a grim future in which the extinction of flora and fauna would lead to widespread famine and death. He pointed out that scientists are currently seeking solutions to this global crisis, with a primary focus on environmental preservation and protection.

The director stated that the department’s core objective is to conserve the environment and protect rivers. As part of their efforts, they hold awareness campaigns in partnership with stakeholders such as administrators, police, and village councils.

Speaking about the Dikhu River, he identified it as a valuable asset due to its richness in both ornamental and food fish species. The Indian government also gives serious importance to ornamental fish species, he said.

According to him, the indigenous and endemic ornamental fish in Dikhu are treasures for future generations, attracting researchers and boosting ecotourism.

However, he expressed concern about the poisoning of rivers, which is leading to the degradation of aquatic life and the destruction of sustainable income sources. He urged the village councils to prioritise river ranching practises, abandon unethical fishing, and promote indigenous and ethical fishing. He warned against destructive practises such as the use of poisonous chemicals and electricity for fishing.

Rongsenungba proposed a total fishing ban of at least three months during the breeding season (June-August) to allow for the replenishment of fish stocks in the river.

It may be mentioned that on April 6, 2010, the village councils of Longsa and Ungma resolved to protect the flora and fauna around the river. They declared the area as the Tzüla (Dikhu) Green Zone, covering around 14.5 km from Chinangyimzuk/Tamati to Chengiyimzuk/Tobaset. The Green Zone Project Management Committee was set up to oversee the area’s protection. Besides imposing a ban on fishing, the two village councils resolved to forbid all environmentally detrimental activities.