Chennai, 14 June (H.S.):

More than one lakh fishermen across Tamil Nadu are preparing to return to the sea from Sunday midnight as the 61-day annual fishing ban in the Bay of Bengal comes to an end, ushering in a new fishing season and renewed economic activity along the state's coastline.

Over 15,000 mechanised fishing boats are expected to venture into the sea from major fishing harbours and coastal districts across Tamil Nadu after remaining docked since April 15. Fishing communities and allied sectors are hopeful of improved catches and business prospects following the lifting of the seasonal restriction.

The annual ban, imposed by the Union Government from April 15 to June 14 along the eastern coastline covering Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh, is aimed at protecting marine resources during the peak breeding season of fish and ensuring sustainable fish production.

During the ban period, mechanised fishing boats were prohibited from venturing into the sea. Fishermen used the break to repair engines, service vessels, mend fishing nets and carry out maintenance work to prepare for the resumption of fishing activities.

Fishing harbours across the state, including Chennai's Kasimedu harbour, witnessed hectic preparations on Sunday as fishermen stocked ice, fuel and other essentials before setting sail. Fisheries Department officials and harbour authorities have also completed arrangements to facilitate the smooth restart of operations.

The mechanised fishing fleet is expected to operate from coastal centres in Tiruvallur, Chengalpattu, Villupuram, Cuddalore, Thanjavur, Tiruvarur, Nagapattinam, Mayiladuthurai, Pudukkottai, Ramanathapuram, Thoothukudi, Tirunelveli and Kanyakumari districts, besides Puducherry and Karaikal.

The resumption of fishing is expected to boost fish arrivals and benefit thousands of people involved in fish trade, transportation, processing and other allied activities. Fisheries experts have consistently maintained that the annual fishing ban plays a vital role in conserving fish stocks, maintaining ecological balance and ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine resources in the Bay of Bengal.

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Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman