Mass fish deaths at Budgam ‘Trout Farm, Owner blames Fishery Department

Hundreds of trout fish have perished at a fish farm in Central Kashmir’s Budgam. The farm, owned by Bashir Ahmad Sheikh and located along Doodpathri Road at Pethzanigam Beerwah reported the loss of over 3,000 trout, with the cause of death still unknown.
While talking to the news agency Kashmir News Trust, Bashir Ahmad expressed frustration, stating that the deaths could be linked to issues with feed, seed quality, or contaminated water. “Fish are dying daily, yet the Fishery Department has shown no seriousness in addressing the problem or supporting entrepreneurs like me,” he alleged.
The distraught owner accused the department of negligence, highlighting that despite repeated attempts to seek help, no officials visited the farm to investigate the matter.
Bashir Ahmed criticized the Fishery Department for its failure to assist farmers, accusing it of misleading aspiring entrepreneurs into believing they will receive proper guidance and support.
He said the Fishery Department’s promotion of fish farming is a hoax. “I requested the Department many times to visit my farm and investigate why trout fish are dying. They didn’t care and still they are not bothered at my loss,” he said. [KNT]