24-Hour Coastal Shutdown in Kerala Against Offshore Mining
Click to start listening
Synopsis
On February 27, all fishing activities in Kerala came to a halt following a 24-hour coastal shutdown called by the Fisheries Coordination Committee. The protest opposes the Central Government's sand mining plans off the Kollam coast, uniting various political factions in the state against the decision.
Key Takeaways
- Kerala's fishing activities stopped due to protests.
- Fisheries Coordination Committee leads the shutdown.
- Opposition against mining off Kollam coast.
- Coalition of political groups supporting the protest.
- Potential impact on upcoming Parliament march.
Thiruvananthapuram, Feb 27 (NationPress) All fishing operations in Kerala have completely ceased following the call from the Fisheries Coordination Committee for a 24-hour comprehensive coastal shutdown. This protest is aimed at opposing the Central Government's decision to permit mining in the waters off the Kollam coast.
The Committee comprises members from the state’s key political factions, including the ruling CPI(M)-led Left and the Congress-led UDF.
The demonstrators are urging the Centre to retract its approval for sand mining across three designated blocks off the Kollam coast, which encompass a total area of 242 square kilometers.
The Union Ministry of Mines began the tendering process in November 2024, with the announcement of the successful bidder expected by March 27.
As a result of the protest, all commerce, from local fish vendors to market fish stalls, remained closed on Thursday. The shutdown commenced at midnight on Wednesday.
Similarly, no fishing vessels, large or small, have set sail into the sea.
Under the leadership of former Congress parliamentarian T.N. Prathapan and CPI(M) legislator P.P. Chitharanjan, the statewide protest has gained traction, with significant participation from the fishing sector and others in protest gatherings.
The Latin Church and its congregants have also expressed their solidarity and are actively participating in the demonstrations.
Kerala’s fishing industry provides direct employment to approximately 250,000 individuals, with an additional 1.5 million depending on it indirectly.
The state boasts nearly 4,000 trawlers and over 25,000 other fishing vessels.
This successful 24-hour shutdown is expected to bolster the upcoming Parliament march scheduled for March 12.
Despite the traditional political rivals collaborating for this protest, a statewide coastal rally was initiated by Leader of Opposition V.D. Satheesan, which is being organized by the Revolutionary Socialist Party, an ally of the Congress-led UDF.
Former State Minister and state secretary of RSP Shibhu Baby John, who is leading the rally, accused Chief Minister Pinarayi Vijayan of playing a dual role.
“While the Left government outwardly opposes sea sand mining, it quietly supports the Central government's actions,” stated John.
