Deputy Minister of the Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources, Rathna Gamage, with the objective of developing the freshwater fishing industry in the Badulla district, undertook an extensive inspection tour of the district. Even Badulla District Parliamentarian Sudath Balagalla took part in this tour.
The Deputy Minister, who undertook an inspection tour of the Sorabora Tank in Mahiyanganaya, exchanged views with the fishermen who are currently engaged in the fishing industry. They were also informed that funds have been allocated from the budget of this year to develop the freshwater fishing industry.
Further, the Minister, who visited the Ulhitiya-Rathkinda Reservoir in the Mahiyanganaya Divisional Secretariat, inspected an algae species that had grown up as an obstacle to the fishing industry. Likewise, the problems of the fishing community engaged in the fishing industry in the vicinity of the reservoir were discussed. Even observations were made regarding the possibility of installing a "Barricade Net" to prevent fish from leaving the reservoir, which is necessary for the promotion of the fishing industry in this reservoir.
As a special occasion of this visit, the Deputy Minister met Vannila Aththo at the invitation of the indigenous community leader, Uruwarige Vannila Aththo and discussed about the freshwater fishing industry. At that time, Vannila Aththo pointed out the requirement of a fishing pier for the indigenous community fishermen to engage in the fishing industry in the Maduru Oya. The Deputy Minister agreed to investigate the possibility of starting the fishing pier while protecting the natural environment.
The Deputy Minister said that these inspection tours enabled him to gain a direct understanding of the problems and needs of the freshwater fishing industry in the Badulla district. The Deputy Minister further stated that the government is committed to taking the necessary measures to develop the freshwater fishing industry further.
