Thiruvananthapuram: Kerala will impose its annual 52-day trawling ban from June 9 midnight to July 31 midnight as part of marine conservation measures, the Fisheries Department said on Saturday.
The restriction, in force since 1988, is intended to protect fish stocks during the southwest monsoon breeding season.
52-day trawling ban from June 9
The Fisheries Department said the annual trawling ban is aimed at safeguarding marine resources during peak breeding months, when most fish species reproduce along the Kerala coast.
It said trawling operations during this period lead to destruction of fish eggs, juveniles and brood stock, making the restriction necessary under monsoon conditions.
Traditional fishermen will be allowed to continue surface fishing within Kerala's territorial waters during the ban period.
The Centre has also imposed a 61-day fishing ban in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ) along the west coast from June 1 to July 31, prohibiting all fishing activities except those carried out by non-motorised vessels.
Monitoring, patrols and safety measures
To enforce the ban, the department has activated round-the-clock control rooms in all coastal districts from May 15.
Twenty private boats will be hired across nine coastal districts for sea patrol and rescue operations during the restriction period.
Fisheries ambulances stationed at Vizhinjam and Vypeen will continue operations, while nine FRP boats under the department have been deployed for maritime safety duties.
The department said 80 trained fishermen youth, who completed courses at the National Institute of Water Sports in Goa, are being appointed to a marine safety force.
Funds for sea patrol and rescue operations have already been allocated to all nine coastal districts.
Authorities have also been instructed to ensure fishing boats from other states leave Kerala waters and that diesel bunk operations at fishing harbours are regulated during the ban period.
Trawling vessels are to be shifted to safe locations before the restriction comes into force.
District-level meetings chaired by District Collectors will be held to ensure smooth enforcement.
Strict legal action has been warned against any violations of the ban.
The Fisheries Department, Marine Enforcement and Coastal Police will jointly carry out maritime safety operations, with the Indian Navy and Indian Coast Guard kept on standby for rescue support if required.
Welfare measures and coordination
Arrangements are being made in coordination with the Civil Supplies Department to provide free ration to workers of mechanised fishing vessels, peeling workers and others who lose employment during the ban period.
A special meeting with representatives of fishermen's organisations will be convened later to discuss sector-related issues, the statement added.