KOZHIKODE: As the World Environment Day theme focuses on ‘Small islands and climate change,' those residing on the premises of the Korappuzha have taken conservation of the river through aquaculture as their prime motto this year. Instead of raising their voice against the administration for not doing anything for the protection of the river, they themselves have set out to prove what they can do.
Voicing grave concern over the deterioration of the river, fishermen and residents near the Korappuzha have jointly started pen culture in Korappuzha, a tributary of the Kallai river, which is in a pitiable condition. Pen culture is a type of enclosure culture that involves holding fish captive within an enclosed space, whilst maintaining free exchange of water. Pen culture also prevents the entry of undesirable fish and other animals that harm fish crop. At present around 12 units comprising 36 fishermen are toiling day and night to generate a decent income without making any compromise on the natural existence of the river.
Explicating more on it, aquaculturist and convenor of the Korappuzha Samrakshana Samyuktha Samara Samithi, K P Anil Kumar, says that by promoting the project among the residents they are trying to draw the attention and concern of the people towards the protection of the river from pollutants. When people are associated with the river side, there won't be any dumping of waste materials or sand mining, he says. Recently, K Dasan MLA had approached the district administration to improve the condition of the river. “But so far they have done nothing,” say the residents.
“We take the increasing number of members to the group as a sign of our unparalleled success. Of late women folk have started showing interest in becoming a part of the noble venture, that also ensures a decent revenue,” says Anil Kumar. Pearl Spot, Red Snapper and Mullet are the fish varieties grown in the river.
It was around three years ago that the residents of Atholi and Thalakulathur grama panchayats were introduced to pen culture by the then eco-culture experts with the Fisheries Department, Pradeep and Anila.
Though the farmers were not sure about its success in the initial stage, they gradually acquainted themselves with the project.