Butwal, December 5:

A water reservoir meant for irrigation here produces up to 180,000 kg of fish a year. The reservoir, known as Jagadishpur Lake, in Niglihawa of Kapilvastu, was built 37 years ago was leased two years ago to Kantipur Fishery Pvt Ltd for 10 years at Rs 4.26 lakh yearly.

The lake, protected by Banganga Water Users’ Committee, was leased out at the recommendation of the Fishery Development Centre, Rupandehi. The lake covers some 225 hectares and provides irrigation facility to 6,500 hectares.

Kantipur Fishery has invested over Rs 12.5 million, according to its president Shailendra Sherchan. Rupandehi Fishery Development Centre chief Ramananda Mishra said the reservoir produces at least 180,000 kg of fish every year.

Fish of 14 species including common carp (rohu), bighead carp (bhakur), grass carp and fancy carp weighing up to five kg each are farmed. The lake is also a favorite haunt of migratory birds during winter. Locals said the lake located near Tilaurakot 12 km from East-West Highway can also be developed into a tourist spot with boating, fishing and setting up a centre for studies on fish and birds and flora.