MUZAFFARABAD, Sept 15: The fishing rights contract in Mangla dam was auctioned for Rs161.2 million.

The auction was held at Mangla fish hatchery in Mirpur under the chairmanship of Chaudhry Muhammad Razzaq, director AJK wildlife and fisheries department.

Five registered contractors participated in the auction. The contract would be for a period of three years.

The successful contractor, Munshi Mohammad Nazir, said he would set up two more fish sale points in Mirpur to provide fresh fish at cheap rates to local people.

At present there is only one fish sale point for Mirpur residents.

Besides, he said, he would also ensure protection of native fish, such as Mahasheer, Kaloo and Singala, in the reservoir, spread at 258 sq km area, by taking stringent measures against unlawful angling and poaching.

The contractor would also stock two million different species of fingerlings in the Mangla reservoir, every year, under the agreement.

Speaking on the occasion, Mr Razzaq said his department would extend full cooperation to the contractor in this regard.

He said the department would also increase the production of fishes by making the Mangla fish hatchery fully operational.

This would not only help meet white protein needs but also preserve the biodiversity of the dam.

He said at least 10 watching towers and huts would be set up in the lake for protection of biodiversity and migratory bird watching under a recently approved scheme worth Rs244 million.

Mr Razzaq said fishing ponds on the banks of Mangla reservoir would be used for fish production so that registered anglers could also enjoy their hobby.