The National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) of Sri Lanka announced that a massive fish harvest of over 35,000 kilograms was obtained from the Udawalawe Reservoir, located in the Embilipitiya Divisional Secretariat Division of the Ratnapura District, on May 9th and 10th.
The total value of this fish harvest is approximately Rs. 10,909,393/=.
The rise in the water level of the Walawe River, along with heavy rainfall in the upper catchment areas of the Udawalawe Reservoir including Balangoda, has been identified as the main reason for this record catch. The total harvest of 35,469 kg includes 27,030 kg of Catla, 7,430 kg of Mrigal, and 1,009 kg of Tilapia.
Arrangements have been made to transport a significant portion of this catch to the Negombo area for use in dried fish production. This has directly benefited 313 fishermen in the region and indirectly created employment opportunities for around 1,650 people. It has also helped supply affordable, high-quality fresh freshwater fish to consumers while supporting local protein needs.
To further strengthen the freshwater fisheries sector, the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA) has planned to stock 2.4 million freshwater fish fry in the Udawalawe Reservoir this year.
The Authority further emphasizes that the government’s primary objective is to strengthen the freshwater fisheries industry in the country while improving livelihoods and the nutritional well-being of the population.
