Kaziranga: As Bhogali Bihu approaches, residents living along the fringes of Kaziranga National Park are being forced to set aside a centuries-old tradition following a ban on fishing in nearby wetlands imposed by the Assam High Court. Community fishing during Magh Bihu, observed in mid-January, has long been an integral part of the festival for Assamese and other indigenous communities. However, just days before the celebrations, the court’s decision has evoked mixed reactions among locals, many of whom feel their age-old cultural practices have been unfairly restricted.
Park authorities have clarified that the wetlands surrounding Kaziranga are now included within the protected area of the national park, making activities such as fishing a violation of conservation laws. To address concerns and explain the legal position, a meeting was convened under the joint supervision of officials from Golaghat district and Kaliabor subdivision. “Fishing in the wetlands near the national park used to be a common practice. However, these wetlands are now part of the protected area of Kaziranga National Park. Any such activity here is considered illegal under conservation laws,” said Sonali Ghosh, Field Officer of Kaziranga National Park and Tiger Reserve.
Also Read: Bomb Threat Email Triggers Panic at Hailakandi District Court
A UNESCO World Heritage Site, Kaziranga is renowned for its rich biodiversity, including the one-horned rhinoceros, tigers, elephants and numerous bird species. Officials stressed that the wetlands are vital for maintaining the park’s fragile ecosystem. With Bhogali Bihu around the corner, local communities now face the challenge of reshaping their celebrations in compliance with the new regulations.
