Fish farmers in Kaohsiung hit by a week of heavy rain can now claim cash relief on every species they raise, a win for an industry facing heavy losses.

• Southwest monsoon rains starting Aug 19 flooded fish ponds across Kaohsiung, killing fish and letting others escape.
• The city won central government approval to cover all farmed species under cash disaster relief, not just selected ones.
• Applications run from Aug 26 to Sep 8 at the district office where the pond is located.
• Farmers need ID, a fish farming registration certificate, stocking declaration papers, and photos of the flooding and dead or escaped fish.
• Low-interest loans are also on offer to help farmers restock and reopen.

Outlook: Officials promise loose criteria and fast processing, so payouts should start flowing soon after the September deadline.