The fisheries department has reportedly announced the annual fishing ban from June 1 to July 31, both days inclusive. As per the notification, fishing by fishing vessels fitted with mechanical means of propulsion and by means of trawl-net and purse-seine net is prohibited.
During this period, mechanized fishing is prohibited along the sea coast and territorial waters of the state. The ban, imposed annually, aims to facilitate sufficient time for fish breeding along the state’s coastal belt, throughout the spawning season.
It allows several species of fish to spawn by providing adequate protection. It also prevents fishermen from risking their lives in the choppy monsoon seas.
Traditional fishermen are exempt from the fishing ban which applies only to mechanized boats. It seems necessary to extend the fishing ban to 90 days, till the end of August.
Fishermen should also be compensated during the period considering the economic impact the ban can have on their livelihoods. An extension of the fishing ban period will also allow the fish to grow to their normal size as adults.
It is usually observed that at the end of the 61-day ban period juvenile fish are sold in the market. As a result of this the fish eaters do not get their money’s worth when they buy fish.
A 90-day fishing ban period will mean that marine life is not exploited for petty profits and needs to be implemented.
