A fish Biodiversity Hatchery has been developed at Chashma Reservoir in 2013. The project aimed at judicious fish conservation, management and development of Chashma reservoir fauna for better exploitation and utilization of such a huge fisheries resource through concentration on fish biodiversity to have maximum sustainable yield (MSY).
Objectives
The major objectives of the project are:
- Conduct scientific studies/ survey of fish resources and preparation and implementation of the fisheries management plan
- Stock replenishment through fish seed recruitment
- Provision of fish landing center
- Socio-economic uplift of fishermen community
- Human resource development
- Benefits and Analysis
Financial
Presently this water body is contributing about Rs. 32 million on annual basis through leasing of fishing rights. However, the income generation would be enhanced manifold after the successful completion of the project.
Economic
The existing potential of the Chashma Barrage i.e., 800 to 1000 m. ton would raise to 2000 to 2500 m. ton per annum. Thus the additional production of 1200 to 1500 m. ton valued Rs.150 million annually is expected after the completion of the 2nd phase of the project in 2017.
Social benefits with indicators
The fishermen community and people engaged in fisheries business would directly benefit as well as the local population living in the surrounding villages would also be benefit with the creation of socio-economic facilities of the project.
Employment generation (Direct and Indirect)
Sixty four (64) new direct vacancies of different categories would be created during the development phase of the project. Besides this, a number of indirect employments would be generated as a result of enhanced aquaculture related economic activities in the area.
Environmental impact
There will be environmental friendly atmosphere as the project activity would have no negative impact on environment as the preventive measure would be adopted during the treatment process of pond fishes.