Ludhiana: Despite a clear ban imposed by the National Green Tribunal (NGT) in the year 2000, illegal production of Thai Magur fish continues unabated. Today, the health department conducted raids at various fish markets in the city and seized 33 quintals of banned Magur fish. The fish was seized from Dhandari Khurd, Tajpur Road and Sherpur Road markets. The raids were conducted on the directions of MLA Rajinderpal Kaur Chhina as she found out that Thai Magur fish was not only being reared but also openly sold in the markets. The raids were conducted today with the help of police and the health department. The seized fish was destroyed on the spot. The MLA said, “The Thai Magur fish was banned in India in the year 2000 due to its carcinogenic nature.
However, farmers rear it as it grows very fast and takes up less space. Moreover, it eats almost everything, including meat. The fish is sold at high profits. People eat it due to lack of awareness and cheap prices.” The fish is harmful to humans. “Thai Magur completely destroys the ecosystem of the pond as it eats all other species present in the water body,” the MLA said. A health department official said, “Consumption of Thai Magur increases the risk of getting cancer. Since it is carcinogenic, it should not be consumed.” Moreover, the Thai Magur also harbors disease-causing parasites such as fish lice or argulosis.” Experts have warned about the dire consequences of restricted fish farming in polluted ponds, as it is predatory in nature and disturbs the delicate balance of the pond ecosystem by preying on other aquatic insects and small fish.
