Using poison to fish

It's a matter of grave concern that some fishermen are using lethal poison to catch fish, lobsters and other crustacean stocks in Sundarbans canals. The poison is so deadly that a few drops of it are sufficient to kill a large quantity of fish.

The authorities have imposed varied restrictions to protect the forest, but poaching continues unabated. It is evident by the fact that in spite of a complete fishing restriction in 18 canals across the forest the culprits are not only fishing but also using poison to do so. As toxic water flows into the large rivers, it is not only the fish species that are being destroyed, but the entire ecosystem is also under threat.

Such dangerous practices of poaching pose a great risk to the flora and fauna of the forest and may have long-term negative effects on its ecology. At a time when the Sundarbans faces an increasing number of threats, including the construction of environmentally-threatening industrial infrastructure and the operation of vassals carrying sensitive materials, this abominable activity indeed adds to the risk.

We urge the authorities to put the Sundarbans under constant watch and increase surveillance activities so that no such manmade harm can be done to the forest and the restrictions in place can be fully implemented. We also urge the government to introduce strict punitive measures against those who so venomously violate the environmental sanctity of our precious Sundarbans.