Thiruvananthapuram, 09 June (H.S.):

The Kerala government will enforce the annual monsoon trawling ban from midnight on Tuesday, with the restriction remaining in force until July 31. The 52-day ban is aimed at protecting marine resources and facilitating the breeding and regeneration of fish stocks during the crucial monsoon season.

Under the ban, mechanised fishing boats and trawlers will not be permitted to venture into the sea for fishing operations. Authorities have also imposed a strict prohibition on pair trawling, a fishing method in which two vessels jointly drag a fishing net. The operation of diesel bunk facilities at fishing harbours across the state will be suspended during the period, and fishing vessels from other states will not be allowed to operate along the Kerala coast.

The annual trawling ban is implemented as a conservation measure to ensure sustainable fishing practices and to enhance marine biodiversity. Fisheries officials say the breeding season is critical for the replenishment of fish populations, and restricting large-scale fishing activities helps maintain the long-term health of the marine ecosystem.

However, traditional fishermen have been granted exemptions from the ban. Small, non-mechanised fishing craft can continue surface fishing operations during the period. Traditional fishermen will be allowed to venture up to 12 nautical miles from the coast for fishing activities, subject to existing safety and regulatory guidelines.

The Fisheries Department has warned that strict action will be taken against those found violating the ban. Enforcement teams, including fisheries officials, coastal police and the Coast Guard, are expected to conduct regular inspections and surveillance along the coastline to ensure compliance.

The monsoon trawling ban is observed annually along Kerala’s coast and is considered a key measure in safeguarding fish resources while supporting the sustainability of the state’s fishing industry.

---------------

Hindusthan Samachar / Arun Lakshman