Mawphlang MLA Eugeneson Lyngdoh today inaugurated retail fish outlets at Mawngap market under Mawphlang Lyngdohship.
The total outlay of this central Blue Revolution scheme 2017-18 project is Rs 17.60 lakh, of which 60 percent was supported by the government.
Speaking on the occasion, the Superintendent of Fisheries, H Papang, stressed that the retail fish outlet is not only meant for hygienic retail of local fish but is also a linkage between the local fish farmers, buyers and marketers.
The annual demand for fish is 33,000 tonnes but Meghalaya’s own production is less than half of this at 16,000 tonnes.
However, after the launch of the State Aquaculture Mission in March 2021, fish production in the state has started to increase, Papang said and she expressed hope that, in time, the state will be self-sufficient in fish production.
Earlier, Director of Fisheries, AL Mawlong, recounted that a proposal was made to declare Mawphlang dam and Umïew River as fish sanctuaries.
She said that there is a need for the creation of awareness programmes and for the Fisheries Department and fish farmers to work together vigorously.
Meanwhile, Eugeneson expressed concern about the depletion and pollution of river bodies caused by rampant littering.
“Our irresponsibility in littering, throwing away every plastic bag and wrapper the moment we step outside of our homes, all goes into river bodies which goes against what we mean when we talk about hygiene,” he said.
Mawngap is strategically placed within reach of West Khasi Hills, South West Khasi Hills, Eastern West Khasi Hills and Sohiong and thus has the potential to be the centre of the fish trade, Eugeneson added.
“I urge the fish farmers that, when they get to avail of the various government schemes, not to waste it but work diligently because time and money are precious,” he added.
