Daijiworld Media Network - Mangaluru/Udupi

Mangaluru/Udupi, June 1: With the onset of the monsoon and turbulent sea conditions, mechanised fishing has been banned for 61 days from June 1 to July 31 across coastal Karnataka. This period is also vital for marine breeding, and hence, the annual ban has been implemented as per long-standing practice.

Labourers return home as season ends

As fishing activities halt, male and female labourers involved in handling, loading, and unloading fish at ports like Mangaluru and Malpe have started returning to their hometowns. Many of these workers hail from other districts and states such as Odisha, Andhra Pradesh, and Jharkhand. Most have already left, while others are preparing to return.

Representational image

Work continues despite fishing ban

However, the break does not apply to boat owners and fishermen, who remain engaged in docking boats, hauling them ashore, conducting repairs, maintenance, and preparing nets. These tasks are done in anticipation of resuming fishing after the ban ends.

Compared to the last four to five years, this season has been one of the worst for the fishing community in Udupi, Dakshina Kannada, and Uttara Kannada districts. Many boats failed to get the expected catch, forcing nearly 60% of them to anchor mid-season to avoid further losses.

Fish prices soar due to shortage

A shortage of fish has led to a steep rise in prices. Just a few days ago, rates at Malpe port reached:

• Kingfish: Rs 1,500–1,600 per kg
• Mackerel: Rs 200–300 per kg
• Squids: Rs 500–600 per kg
• Tiger Prawns: Rs 500–600 per kg
• Croaker Fish: Rs 200–350 per kg
• Sole Fish: Rs 300 per kg

As a result, fish meals at hotels have also become costlier. In previous years, the last two months of the season were generally profitable, but this time, the season has ended with heavy losses, said Dayakar V Suvarna, president of the Malpe Kanni Fishermen’s Association.

Strict action for violation

Mechanised fishing is strictly prohibited during this 61-day period. Only traditional country boats with engines up to 10 horsepower are allowed to operate. Any violation of the government ban will be penalised under the Karnataka Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1986. Offenders will also lose eligibility for tax-free diesel for up to one year, said Vivek R, joint director, Department of Fisheries, Malpe

According to government directives, fishing activities were permitted only until May 31. Due to Cyclone Remal, boats stranded outside ports are now returning all at once, causing congestion. As a result, a few days’ extension has been granted to allow time for unloading fish, said Dayanand Suvarna, president, Malpe Fishermen’s Association.