Guwahati: The Golaghat district administration in Assam has issued an official order prohibiting illegal entry and community fishing in water bodies, rivers, and wetlands within Kaziranga National Park (KNP) during the upcoming Magh Bihu festival. The prohibitory measures, effective immediately, will remain in force until January 16, as announced by District Magistrate P Uday Praveen
The decision follows a letter from the Divisional Forest Officer of Eastern Assam Wildlife Division, Bokakhat, expressing concerns about a significant number of people entering the park for community fishing during Magh Bihu, citing it as a tradition. The authorities fear that illegal entry may lead to law and order issues, and the congregation for community fishing might result in traffic congestion on NH 715.
The order emphasizes that illegal entry into the national park constitutes a cognizable offence, violating sections of the Wildlife (Protection) Act, 1972, and is a non-bailable offense, according to an official from the forest department. The Magh Bihu celebrations span three days, commencing on January 14.