52-day trawling ban begins tonight across Kerala coast
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Thiruvananthapuram: A 52-day trawling ban will come into effect from midnight on June 9 along the Kerala coast as part of efforts to protect marine life and promote sustainable fishing practices. The seasonal ban, lasting until midnight on July 31, aims to allow fish stocks to regenerate during the monsoon season.
While traditional fishermen using small boats will be permitted to continue operations, large mechanised trawlers must remain ashore throughout the ban period. To support those impacted by the restrictions, the Kerala government will provide free rations to workers employed on trawling boats. Additionally, round-the-clock control rooms have been operational in all coastal districts since May 15, according to Fisheries Minister Saji Cheriyan.
For enhanced sea rescue and patrol operations during the ban, 19 private boats have been hired across nine coastal districts. Three marine ambulances are on standby at the fisheries stations in Vizhinjam, Vypin, and Beypore. Furthermore, 76 young fishermen who have completed training at the National Institute of Water Sports in Goa will be deployed as marine safety personnel across the nine coastal districts, the minister added in a recent Facebook post.
Authorities have ordered all out-of-state boats to vacate Kerala waters before the ban begins. Fuel bunks at harbours will remain closed, except at selected stations supplying inboard boats under the state-run Matsyafed.
Fishermen venturing into the sea during this period have been instructed to carry valid ID cards and wear life jackets. Boats must also update their colour codes promptly if not already approved, as strict action will be taken against trawlers violating the ban.
Officials have appealed to all fishing communities to cooperate fully, particularly if additional bans are imposed due to adverse weather conditions. They also warned that harmful fishing methods damaging young fish stocks will not be tolerated.
“The cooperation of everyone is expected to help protect marine resources and ensure the safety of fishermen,” the minister said.
With PTI inputs
