Shillong, March 25: Meghalaya took a giant leap in aquatic conservation with the inauguration of a dedicated centre showcasing the region’s diverse snakehead fish species. Nestled within the Aqua Park cum Visitor Information Centre at Khliehshnong, Sohra, the new facility aims to raise awareness, promote conservation, and foster sustainable tourism—ensuring that these unique species thrive for generations to come.
Home to 199 fish species, including 13 found nowhere else in the world, Meghalaya boasts a rich aquatic heritage. The newly inaugurated centre stands as a model for conservation-based tourism, encouraging local communities to actively participate in safeguarding their freshwater biodiversity.
A collaborative effort between GIZ (Deutsche Gesellschaft für Internationale Zusammenarbeit), the Fisheries Department of Meghalaya, and Khliehshnong Village Dorbar, the project was launched with a total funding of ₹95 lakhs. It features an immersive exhibition space highlighting snakehead fish species and their cultural significance, an aquarium, a cafeteria with a lounge, and essential visitor amenities, including washrooms and rain shelters.
The centre is a crucial component of the Meghalaya State Aquaculture Mission 2.0 (2020-21), which envisions not only the protection of fish species but also the upliftment of local communities through sustainable livelihood opportunities. By integrating education with eco-tourism, the initiative aims to inspire visitors and researchers alike.
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The grand inauguration event saw the presence of dignitaries, including His Excellency Ambassador Philipp Ackermann (German Ambassador to India), Mr. R.S. Gill (Chief Conservator of Forests, Meghalaya), and senior officials from GIZ and the Department of Fisheries. The occasion was marked by the release of key conservation documents, including the Rapid Habitat Assessment of Khliehshnong Water Reservoir Handbook and traditional knowledge records on fish conservation.
During his visit, Ambassador Ackermann also explored Meghalaya’s famed Living Root Bridges, marveling at their deep-rooted connection between nature and local traditions.
Speaking about Germany’s commitment to Meghalaya’s environmental initiatives, he remarked, “These living root bridges are such a unique and breathtaking connection between people and nature. It is an honor for me that the International Climate Initiative of Germany financially supports the traditional knowledge and community-based sustainable tourism around them.”
With this pioneering initiative, the Meghalaya government continues to urge collective efforts to protect indigenous fish species and preserve the state’s rich aquatic biodiversity—blending conservation, education, and sustainable tourism into one transformative endeavor.
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