Basit Shah / Rayees Shah
Dozens of fish were found dead on Sunday, in Nallah Sindh at Cheerwan area of Kangan in Central Kashmir’s Ganderbal district, invoking grief and anger among the people.
Sources told The Kashmiriyat that dozens of fish were found dead in Nallah Sindh and Banks of the said river at Cherwan area of Kangan, which is a matter of concern, as Nallah Sindh is famous for it’s Trout fish.
Locals alleged that some miscreants are using Bleaching powder (calcium hypochlorite) and formerly known as “chlorinated lime” – to kill the fish which has also led to the death of other aquatic life.
Bleaching powder is used as a bleaching agent and treatment of water bodies. It is known to undergo self heating and rapid decomposition accompanied by the release of toxic gases.
According to experts, consuming fish killed by using bleaching powder is harmful for human health. Along with fish, bleaching powder enters the human body resulting in health related problems.
Local residents of the area have demanded stern action against the unbated use of bleaching power in Nallah Sindh and have also demanded investigation into the easy availability of calcium hypochlorite.
Meanwhile, when contacted Assistant Director Fisheries Ganderbal told The Kashmiriyat, “We are ascertaining the facts and are investigating the matter”.
“I assure you that if anyone found involved in this illegal practice he will be dealt as per the provisions of law”, he added.