Fisheries department registers 14 cases of illegal fish sale in Himachal, collects Rs 11,800 as fine

Dharamshala (The Uttam Hindu): The Fisheries Department in Himachal Pradesh has registered 14 cases of illegal fish sale and collected a fine of Rs 11,800 during a week-long special enforcement drive in the Pong Dam area of Kangra district.

According to an official release, the intensive drive was conducted under the leadership of Assistant Director Fisheries Sandeep Kumar. A special team of fisheries officials from Khatiyad, Sthana, Dhameta, Jawali, Barnali, and Nagrota Surian inspected shops and roadside eateries in Jawali, Ghar-Jarot, Nagrota Surian, Fatehpur, and nearby areas.

During the inspections, several shops were found selling fish without valid bills. The illegally sold fish was seized on the spot, and legal action was initiated against those violating the rules.

The department stated that within just one week, 14 cases related to illegal fish sales were detected and penalties were imposed. Himachal Pradesh Director of Fisheries Vivek Chandel said the department follows a zero-tolerance policy against illegal fishing and fish trade. He added that during the financial year 2025–26, the Pong Dam Fisheries Circle has so far detected 305 cases of illegal fishing and sale, recovering a total fine of Rs 2,92,350.

Chandel emphasized that Pong Dam is a crucial source of livelihood for fishermen, and illegal activities will not be tolerated under any circumstances. He said surprise inspection drives will continue in the future as well. The department has also appealed to the public to immediately inform fisheries officials if they notice any illegal fish trade, so that timely and strict action can be taken.