Why Are Fishing Boats Still Docked After the TN Ban?
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Synopsis
Chennai's fishing community faces uncertainty as mechanised boats remain docked despite the end of the fishing ban. Adverse weather conditions and safety concerns lead to a delay in operations, causing financial distress among local fishermen. Will the threat of squally winds hinder the livelihoods of many?
Key Takeaways
- The annual fishing ban ended on June 14.
- Severe weather conditions are preventing boats from setting sail.
- Fishermen face financial difficulties due to prolonged inactivity.
- Sailing tokens are necessary for fishing operations.
- A shortage of fresh fish is affecting local market prices.
Chennai, June 16 (NationPress) Even though the annual fishing ban officially concluded on June 14, mechanised fishing vessels along the South Tamil Nadu coast have not yet resumed their activities due to severe weather conditions.
The India Meteorological Department (IMD) has issued warnings about squally winds reaching speeds between 45 to 55 kmph, with gusts up to 65 kmph, anticipated to continue over the South Tamil Nadu coast, Gulf of Mannar, and the nearby Comorin region for five days beginning June 14.
In light of this alert, the Tamil Nadu Fisheries Department has temporarily halted the issuance of sailing tokens for mechanised fishing vessels. These tokens are essential for vessels to set sail, and without them, fishermen are forced to stay on land.
The ongoing grounding of fishing boats is causing distress within the fishing communities, especially after enduring a 61-day ban intended for marine conservation during the breeding season.
Fishermen express that they are facing financial hardships, struggling to make ends meet as the extended downtime has depleted their savings and pushed many into debt. “We’ve already been inactive for two months due to the fishing ban. Just as we were getting ready to resume, the weather has taken a turn for the worse,” stated Antony John, a leader among fishermen from Mattakadai.
“Many of us have taken loans for household expenses and school fees. If we don’t start fishing soon, we won’t be able to repay our debts,” he added.
A senior official from the fisheries department confirmed that no vessels will be permitted to sail until conditions improve. “Fishermen are being advised to remain on shore due to safety concerns. The IMD has projected wind speeds that surpass safe operational limits. Once conditions are deemed safe, sailing tokens will be issued promptly,” the official stated.
A recent survey indicated that 550 mechanised fishing vessels—including 35 bottom trawlers from Vembar, 250 bottom trawlers from Thoothukudi, and 265 gill netters—are registered and compliant with the Tamil Nadu Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1983. However, 66 vessels are unregistered due to violations concerning boat length and engine capacity.
Meanwhile, the prolonged halt in fishing activities has resulted in a noticeable shortage of fresh fish in local markets, leading to price increases affecting consumers across coastal districts. Traders caution that if boats do not resume operations soon, the shortfall will worsen in the coming days.
Point of View
The ongoing difficulties faced by fishermen in Tamil Nadu highlight the challenges of balancing marine conservation efforts with the economic realities of coastal communities. It's crucial for authorities to ensure both safety and economic sustainability for these communities.
NationPress
16/06/2025
Frequently Asked Questions
Why are the fishing boats still docked?
Fishing boats remain docked due to severe weather conditions and warnings issued by the IMD regarding squally winds.
What are sailing tokens?
Sailing tokens are mandatory permits required for mechanised fishing vessels to set sail. Without these, fishermen cannot operate their boats.
How long was the fishing ban?
The fishing ban lasted for 61 days, aimed at marine conservation during the breeding season.
What is the impact of the weather on fishermen?
Severe weather has prevented fishermen from resuming operations, causing financial strain as they rely on fishing for their livelihood.
How many vessels are registered under the fishing regulation act?
A recent survey revealed that 550 mechanised fishing vessels are registered and compliant under the Tamil Nadu Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1983.
