Mangaluru
Fishing stands as the primary commercial activity along the coast of Karnataka. It significantly contributes to the country’s economy, generating turnovers worth thousands of crores annually. A two-month hiatus starting from June 1 has been announced for the fishing business, marking the conclusion of deep sea fishing on Friday. Deep sea fishing beyond 24 nautical miles from the shore constitutes a substantial aspect of the fisheries industry, extending from August to the end of May each year.
Traditionally, fishermen refrained from fishing during this period, but now regulations enforce this practice. The Fisheries Department will take legal action against violators. The ban on fishing during June and July is imperative to protect the breeding season and mitigate the risks posed by turbulent seas. Fishing during this period disrupts fish breeding, exacerbating fish scarcity.
The monsoon season witnesses rough seas, endangering fishermen’s lives, prompting the prohibition of deep sea fishing. Today, fishermen from Mangalore, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada districts bid adieu to deep sea fishing for the season.
This fishing season has inflicted greater losses on fishermen, primarily due to fish scarcity. Many boats remained anchored, fearing losses during the fishing season. Boat owners lamented substantial financial losses due to poor catches. Rajaratna Sanil, a boat owner and fisherman leader, attributed the fish scarcity to excessive heat. He highlighted the inadequate returns from fishing expeditions, with the costs of deep sea fishing far exceeding the profits.
