Experts at a seminar held in the Karakoram International University here on Saturday highlighted the importance of fisheries in the sustainable development of Gilgit-Baltistan. They also stressed protecting water bodies from environmental degradation to increase population of trout fish in the region. GB secretary fisheries department Khadim Hussain, acting KlU Vice-Chancellor Khalil Ahmed, director fisheries Ghulam Mohiuddin, deputy director Ikram Hussain, faculty of the varsity`s animal and biological sciences departments and students participated in the event titled role of fisheries and aquaculture in GB`s sustainable development. It was organised by GB fisheries department. Speaking on the occasion, Khadim Hussain said trout fish, which was the world`s important fish species, was available in GB. He said promoting fisheries in the region could improve livelihoods of local people.
Mr Hussain said GB fisheries department officials were working to increase production of trout fish across the region. He said the department had so far helped establish over 200 private fish farms in the region, providing income sources to thousands of people. Khadim Hussain said self-employment could be promoted through development of fisheries in GB. Other experts said fisheries and aquaculture were crucial in fight against hunger, achieving food security and ending malnutrition. They emphasised spreading awareness about fisheries for sustainable development. Students of KlU displayed their works highlighting the importance of fisheries and threats to trout fish in GB.
2021, Dawn