1. Uzan Bazar Ghat fish market in Guwahati becomes a lively carnival.
2. Around 2,000 metric tons of fish, including popular species, will be imported.
3. The state anticipates a surge in demand for the Uruka celebration, a day known for feasting and merry-making.
Guwahati, Jan 13: As the people of Assam gear up to celebrate Uruka, the festive day before Magh Bihu known for feasting and merry-making, the anticipation for a grand culinary affair is building up.
With fish taking center stage during this celebration, the Uzan Bazar ghat fish market in Guwahati transforms into a lively carnival.
Beyond the locally sourced fish, the city is set to receive an impressive 2,000 metric tons (MT) of fish imported from various parts of India.
The Brihattar Guwahati Paikary Mas Becha – Kina Somobai Samiti Ltd. (BGPAMKSSL) secretary, Kajal Paul Choudhury, assures that the GMC’s Wholesale Fish Market at Betkuchi is well-prepared to meet the soaring demand on Uruka Day.
To fulfill the demand for this festive occasion, truckloads of fish are transported to Assam from Andhra Pradesh, West Bengal, Delhi, Lucknow, Kanpur, Madhya Pradesh, and other regions.
Typically, 4-6 trucks deliver 48-72 MT of fish daily to Guwahati from other states. However, for Uruka, the wholesale fish markets have reserved 50-60 trucks (600-720 MT) to arrive from outside the state.
Choudhury estimates that approximately 1,800-2,000 MT of imported fish, including popular species like rohu, catla, chital, grass carp, hilsa, and more, will flood the state on Uruka Day.
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Assam’s fish production has witnessed a steady increase over the years, reaching 4.43 lakh MT in 2022-23, as reported by the State Fishery Department.
This growth is attributed to the rising popularity of fish farming, an increased number of individuals entering the fisheries sector, expanded fish farming areas, and the improved quality of fish seeds within the state.
In essence, as Uruka approaches, the people of Assam eagerly await a grand feast where fish takes center stage.
The significant import of 2,000 MT of fish from various regions underscores the cultural and culinary importance of this festive celebration.
The flourishing fish production in Assam reflects the state’s commitment to sustainable and thriving fisheries, contributing to the joyous spirit of Uruka.
