Kochi: In response to the recent fish kills at Kundannoor, the Maradu municipality has convened an urgent meeting to discuss the crisis and seek viable solutions.
This unprecedented incident has prompted immediate action from municipal authorities, with a focus on collaboration and scientific investigation. The meeting is scheduled for Tuesday at the municipality office and will gather representatives from several key stakeholders. Attendees will include officials from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI), Kerala University of Fisheries and Ocean Studies (KUFOS), the fisheries department, and fish farmers from Kundannoor.
Antony Ashanparambil, “Farmers who indulge in cage farming are most affected by the contamination of the waterbody. Six farmers unit in the region are doing fish farming by leveraging 40% subsidy provided by the municipality,” he said. To address the issue comprehensively, the municipality plans to conduct a scientific examination of the affected region. This investigation will be carried out with the assistance of experts from KUFOS and CMFRI, aiming to determine the precise cause of the fish kills. The findings from this examination will inform the development of targeted strategies to prevent future occurrences and mitigate the current impact on the local aquaculture industry.
The municipality’s proactive stance underscores its commitment to safeguarding the livelihoods of fish farmers and maintaining the ecological balance of the region. By bringing together scientific expertise and local knowledge, the municipality aims to formulate an effective response to this environmental crisis. This meeting represents a critical step towards resolving the issue and restoring confidence among the affected stakeholders. The collaborative efforts of the municipality and involved institutions are expected to yield actionable insights and sustainable solutions, ensuring the long-term health of Kundannoor’s aquatic environment
