Srinagar, March 11 -- The Minister In-Charge, Forest, Ecology & Environment Department in reply to a query raised by MLA Nizam-Ud-Din Bhat informed that the fish catch from Wular Lake has shown a consistent increase over the past three years.

The minister while dismissing the claim of adverse impact, said the fresh water lake supports the livelihood of around 5200 registered fishermen.

As per the data accessed, in 2021-22, the total fish catch stood at 2941.68 metric tonnes (MT), comprising 779.76 MT of local fish and 2161.92 MT of carp. The following year, 2022-23, the fish catch increased significantly to 3826.39 MT, with 818.25 MT of local fish and 3008.14 MT of carp.

The highest production was recorded in 2023-24, reaching 4593.861...