Chennai, Aug 18 (NationPress) The ongoing strike by fishermen in Tamil Nadu's Rameswaram against the repeated detentions by the Sri Lankan Navy has now reached its eighth day as of Monday. This protest has already resulted in losses exceeding Rs 7 crore.

The continuous apprehension of Tamil Nadu fishermen by the Sri Lankan Navy over alleged violations of maritime boundaries has led the local fishing community in Rameswaram to initiate an indefinite strike.

According to authorities in Colombo, the fishermen from Tamil Nadu have been encroaching upon their territorial waters.

The recent events have ignited outrage among Rameswaram's fishing community, who maintain that they have relied on these waters for generations and are facing undue persecution.

The fishermen launched their strike on August 11, halting all fishing activities. For over a week now, hundreds of mechanized boats have remained docked at the shore, with boat owners and crews resolute in their decision to not resume operations until their safety is guaranteed.

Representatives from the fishermen's community have emphasized that unless the government intervenes diplomatically with Sri Lanka to secure a lasting resolution, they will persist with their protests.

This strike has created a significant economic impact, with reports indicating losses surpassing Rs 7 crore in the local economy. The once-bustling fishing harbor, known for its trade in prawns, crabs, and other seafood, has come to a standstill.

Auction houses, ice factories, and seafood exporters have been severely affected, leaving thousands of workers relying on the fishing industry without any source of income.

Local leaders from fishermen's unions have articulated that their request is simple: an end to the frequent arrests.

“We cannot jeopardize our lives every time we venture into the sea. The government must act decisively to release our fellow fishermen detained in Sri Lankan prisons,” expressed a union leader.

The crisis has also adversely affected daily wage workers and ancillary industries such as boat repair shops, net suppliers, and transport services.

With no fresh catch available, local shops and seafood markets are facing shortages, impacting consumers as well.

The fishermen have cautioned that if both the Centre and state do not take prompt action, they will be compelled to escalate their protests. They are demanding compensation from the Tamil Nadu government and a permanent diplomatic framework with Sri Lanka to avert future arrests.