KASUR: The recent floods in Punjab have caused widespread devastation, with thousands of fish farms severely impacted, disrupting both fish production and market supply across the province. According to the Punjab Fisheries Department, districts such as Kasur, Hafizabad, and Muzaffargarh are among the worst affected, where floodwaters have washed away millions of fish, damaging ponds, embankments, and other farm infrastructure.
Initial estimates suggest losses amounting to hundreds of millions of rupees. Farmers like Muhammad Ashfaq from Kasur, who invested Rs2 million in fish farming this year, have seen their businesses wiped out. Similarly, Nazir Ahmed from Muzaffargarh expressed concern about his ability to repay his bank loan after losing his stock of baby fish. “If the government does not offer financial aid soon, my business may shut down,” he said.
Rana Shamshad, President of the Punjab Fish Farmers Association, reported that 40,000 to 45,000 acres of fish farms have been affected. The cost of farming on one acre typically ranges from Rs650,000 to Rs700,000, meaning the overall damage could amount to billions. The full scale of the damage will only become clear once the floodwaters recede.
The loss of fish has led to a 40% reduction in fish production, which will likely cause a 30–40% rise in fish prices. Punjab is a major supplier of fish, particularly Kalba Rohu, a local carp species that meets a significant portion of the country’s demand. The floods have affected not just farmers but the entire fish market.
Fish farming is a growing industry in Punjab, with 60,000 to 65,000 acres dedicated to various carp species and prawns. However, experts warn that climate change and unpredictable weather patterns are posing new challenges to this vital sector.
Director General of Punjab Fisheries Rana Saleem Afzal assured that the affected districts have been instructed to prepare detailed damage reports, and the government has promised relief for flood-affected farmers. However, the Fish Farmers Association has warned that immediate government action is necessary to prevent widespread bankruptcy and ensure continued access to affordable protein. Experts have suggested waiving existing loans and providing easy loans for rebuilding infrastructure to support recovery.
