East Khasi Hills won't ban fishing contests, brings in stricter rules

The East Khasi Hills district administration in Meghalaya has decided not to ban fishing competitions outright, but will put the popular events under tighter rules to stop them from causing traffic jams and public inconvenience.

Deputy Commissioner Abhilash Baranwal outlined the changes to reporters, EastMojo reported on Saturday.

What changes for organisers

• Single joint inspection: Organisers will no longer have to collect separate no-objection certificates from the local dorbar and the Block Development Officer. Instead, the agencies concerned will carry out a joint inspection of the venue and report in a standard template. Permission will be considered only after that report comes in.
• Police plan first: The administration will ask police for a deployment plan, including the number of traffic constables needed, before granting permission.
• No overlapping events: Two fishing competitions will not be allowed at the same time.
• No lucky draws: Lucky draws, which draw extra crowds, will be banned at the competitions.
• Away from highways: Competitions must be held away from National Highways, and organisers must ensure vehicles are not parked along highways or the roads leading to the venue.
• Space and parking: Sites will be approved only if inspections show enough room and parking for the expected turnout.

Baranwal said the template was detailed and covered all the points the administration needed to check.

The traffic problem

The Deputy Commissioner said the biggest headache was the end of each event, when participants leave at the same time and clog the roads. His office is working with the Superintendent of Police on a system for staggered departure of vehicles.

"If there is going to be a fishing competition which is legal, we cannot outrightly ban it," Baranwal said, adding that the goal was to ensure that public convenience was not compromised.

He said the restrictions would be reviewed as needed, and more conditions could be added if problems continue.

Fishing competitions, often with large cash and gift prizes, are a common weekend draw around Shillong and attract hundreds of anglers and spectators.