Karwar, June 1 (UNI) A two-month annual fishing ban came into effect on Saturday across coastal Karnataka, aims to conserve marine resources and allow fish populations to regenerate during the monsoon season.
However, fearing the loss of livelihoods of thousands of fishermen who depend on deep-sea fishing during the June 1 to July 31 ban, boat owners and fishing community leaders have urged the government to announce financial assistance to support those affected during the period of inactivity.
As part of the ban, trawl boats and purse seine vessels have been prohibited from operating, while only traditional, non-mechanised fishing boats are permitted to venture into the sea. In Karwar, boat operators have anchored their vessels at the Baithkol harbour in compliance with the restrictions.
The Fisheries Department has issued strict warnings to fishermen against violating the ban. “Action will be taken against those who venture into the sea with mechanised boats during this period,” an official said.
Over 2,000 fishing boats from Karwar, Ankola, Kumta, Honnavar, and Bhatkal taluks in Uttara Kannada district normally set out to sea daily. The industry supports around 10,000 people, including boat owners, crew members, vendors, and allied workers.
Many fishermen utilise the ban period to repair boats, mend fishing nets, and undertake maintenance work. However, concerns over income loss loom large this year, especially as fishing operations had already come to a premature halt ten days ago due to a cyclone, causing additional financial strain.
Meanwhile, in a related development, Sri Lanka recently released 14 Indian fishermen as a goodwill gesture during Prime Minister Narendra Modi’s visit. Additionally, the Karnataka Budget 2024 has earmarked funds for the state’s first sea-ambulance facility, aimed at strengthening support systems for coastal communities.
