TURA: It was a day to remember for the fishing community of Kumaligaon, a village in South West Garo Hills which is about 59 kms away from Tura, as 100 kilograms of fish was released to the Toljawa Fishery Cooperative Society Ltd on Saturday.
The Kumaligaon Community Fishery Project which is arguably the largest aqua fishery in the state, runs over 200 bighas. On the occasion of the release of the fish, Assistant Director, BAD, EGR Marak, said that the fishery has potential to attract foreign and domestic visitors. She urged the community to contribute selflessly towards the preservation of the lake.
Elders of the village say that initially the area was a paddy field but because of natural calamities during the 1970’s, it was reduced to a swamp. Later, under the innovative leadership of District Khadi Officer, Lt Tarun Koch, the area was converted into a small fishery with an aim to conserve the natural water body, recharge the water table and provide fresh catch to the local community.
The fishery has grown over the years and some villagers even parted with their land in the larger interest of the fishing community. This place is also considered sacred by the villagers where rituals are performed before harvest. Located ideally amidst lush greenery, Kumaligaon fishery could be the next anglers’ paradise.
The fishery was inaugurated by Chief Minister, Mukul Sangma, on November 11, 2011. It was constructed under BRGF and development of the area is being taken up by the Border Area Development under ISBADP & BADP.
Expected turnout from the fishery is Rs 30 lakh per annum and so far the community has secured Rs 10 lakh. Revenue generated by fishing is used for maintenance work like de-siltation and for meeting the medical expenditure of the poor and the needy.
The society releases seven quintals of fingerlings annually.