In a significant step toward promoting aquatic biodiversity and eco-tourism, the Department of Fisheries released 4,000 brown trout fingerlings into the Shaliganga River near Doodhpathri and Nallah Sukhnag at Arizal in Budgam district.

The initiative, a first of its kind for Budgam, was carried out under the supervision of Joint Director Fisheries, Mohit-ud-Din Makhdoomi. The ceremonial release of the first batch of fingerlings was performed by SDM Khansahib, Jahangir Ahmed, in the presence of officers from the Fisheries Department.
Locals participated in the event and hailed the department’s efforts to restore and strengthen the region’s aquatic ecosystem. They said such initiatives not only support fish biodiversity but also create livelihood opportunities through sustainable aquaculture and tourism.
Officials said the restocking of brown trout fingerlings will help maintain ecological balance, enhance the natural fish population, and attract anglers and tourists to the scenic river belts of Doodhpathri and Arizal.
The department has announced plans for similar initiatives in other water bodies across central Kashmir to further promote conservation-oriented fish farming and boost rural income sources.