Requesting a ban on illegal, unreported, and unregulated catching of river fish,  the Dima Hasao Angling & Rafting Association (DHARA) submitted a representation to DFO, Dima Hasao Division (West) Haflong recently.

It is stated in the representation that illegal, unreported, and unregulated catching of river fish unabated during this lockdown period advocating illegal means which will not only affect the eco-system of the river but also wipe out many rare species that might be or are yet to be discovered.

They requested DFO, to issue necessary official notice to ban such activities throughout the district especially during spawning season. According to the DHARA,  full assurance was given from DFO’s end that strict and stringent measures against such activities will be dealt with as per law.

Mention may be made here that the district already boasts off with the discovery of new species of fish namely Psilorhynchus nahlongthai at Diyung River and Garra clavirostris at Dilaima River by Dr Sarbojit Thaosen, Associate Professor, Department of Zoology, Haflong Govt. College and his research team. There might be many more such species that are yet to be discovered in the river system, which need to be conserved at all costs.

Moreover, from an adventure and eco-tourism point of view, this riverine system is a natural asset to be safeguarded so that it can attract more tourists and adventure lovers.