The Department of Fisheries has embarked on a district-wide awareness campaign to guide fishermen and fish farmers in preparing for the potential impacts of El Niño on inland fisheries and aquaculture.

Speaking to the media here on Wednesday, Deputy Director (Fisheries) Pramodu Malli said that the initiative, which began on August 3 and conclude on August 7, will focus on educating stakeholders on scientific measures to minimise losses due to adverse climatic conditions.

The official launched the campaign at Krishnapuram project in Karvetinagaram mandal. The field staff explained that El Nino could result in below-normal rainfall, reduced inflows into tanks and reservoirs, falling water levels, increased evaporation and lower dissolved oxygen concentrations, all of which can adversely affect fish growth and survival.

The awareness drive also focused on precautionary measures that can reduce risks and safeguard fish production during prolonged dry spells.

“As of now, awareness programmes have already been organised in 13 villages across Karvetinagaram, Yadamarri, Pulicherla, Shantipuram and Ramakuppam mandals, reaching 101 fishermen. A team of 10 officials from the department is conducting the programme,” Ms. Pramodu Malli said. She also stressed the importance of scientific management practices for sustainable aquaculture in response to changing climatic conditions.

The Deputy Director called on the fisheries farmers to stock fingerlings only after assessing water availability, water quality and dissolved oxygen levels in tanks and reservoirs. She further recommended adopting fish culture practices suited to prevailing water conditions and undertaking phased harvesting wherever water levels decline to minimise fish mortality and production losses.

Appealing to the fishermen to follow technical advisories issued by fisheries experts and adopt planning to protect fish stocks, sustain production and safeguard their livelihoods, the official said that dedicated El Nino help desks have also been set up to provide timely technical guidance across the district.