Heavy rains bring fish bounty to crop fields in southern India, sparking local frenzy
by Nishika BansalRecent heavy rains have caused ponds to overflow into nearby paddy fields in southern India’s Andhra Prade, leading to a rush of local farmers and residents scavenging for fish to take home.
The incident took place at Srirangapatna village in the Korukonda mandal of East Godavari District on July 21.
Visuals showed In the fields and on the road, numerous fish had washed up from the river. People were quickly gathering these fish and taking them home. The scene was lively, with individuals carrying the fish in their hands, on their bicycles, and even on scooters. The roads and fields were bustling with activity as everyone tried to collect as many fish as possible to take back to their homes.
In the Srirangapatna village of East Godavari’s Korukonda mandal, recent heavy rains have caused streams to overflow, washing fish from ponds into the surrounding crop fields. This unexpected bounty has sparked a rush among local farmers and residents, who have been flocking to the fields to catch fish.
Villagers and laborers, arriving early in the morning, have been scouring the flooded paddies, gathering fish to take home. According to some laborers, people from surrounding areas have also joined in the fishing frenzy. The fish, which usually fetch a price of 1000 to 1500 rupees for five kilograms in the outside market, are being sold for less than 500 rupees in Srirangapatna, making them a sought-after commodity for fish lovers.
The sight of people wading through muddy waters, netting fish from the fields, has become a common one in Srirangapatnam. The local economy has seen a temporary boost as a result, with many taking advantage of the situation to procure fresh fish at a fraction of the usual cost.
Despite the challenges posed by the heavy rains and the resulting overflow, the community has come together to make the most of this unexpected opportunity. The incident highlights both the resilience and resourcefulness of the villagers in the face of natural challenges.