Fishermen are on a fishing spree. In the absence of zoning or seasonal approach to fishing, they are out to liberate the lakes of fish at an alarming rate. This, ahead of the migratory season here.

Though the fishermen are allowed to fish in the lakes on contract basis – given under various criteria – the non-scientific methods adopted for fishing by some of them could easily empty the lakes leaving nothing for the birds to feed on.

For example, fishing at the Muthannankulam Lake. The lake is leased for a year to the fishermen, who hold the sole right to fish in that particular lake. According to a fisherman, they breed fish in the lake and fish only when they have fully grown.

However, environmentalists say despite helping the biodiversity of the lakes by breeding fish, they do not have a fixed season for fishing.

“Fishing should happen at a season when it does not affect the birds that flock in large numbers during the migratory season. If they fish now, it will have an impact on the birds when the season begins in October,” K. Mohan Raj from the Save the Coimbatore Wetlands said.

He further added that lakes should also be zoned as fishing and non-fishing areas so that birds get their share too.

“Using long nets should be curbed. Only small nets should be used,” said another activist.

This being the case, consuming these fish by humans could lead to several serious ailments as they are believed to have arsenic and mercury in them, according to a survey.

When contacted, a city-based doctor said arsenic and mercury could have bad effects on the kidneys and the respiratory system. Long term consumption of these fish could lead to cancer ad neurological disorders especially in children, the doctor warned.