Silvester D’Souza
Daijiworld Media Network - Kundapur
Kundapur, Jan 8: Traditional fishermen from three districts will protest against unscientific fishing practices, including light fishing and bull trawling, by blocking the national highway on January 10. The demonstration will take place at Trasi Beach, announced Nagesh Kharvi, president of the Karnataka State Traditional Nautical Fishermen's Federation, in a press conference held at the Uppunda traditional boat building facility.
Kharvi stated that these unscientific fishing methods, which span over approximately 320 kilometres of coastline, threaten the sustainability of fish populations, potentially leading to the rapid extinction of certain species. He urged the government to take immediate action to ban light fishing and protect traditional fishing practices.
Kharvi further emphasized that authorities have indirectly supported light fishing, which has pushed traditional fishermen into difficult circumstances. He called for enforcement of court orders to prevent this harmful practice, which, if left unchecked, may force fishermen into severe economic distress.
On January 10, over 1,000 traditional boats will anchor at sea, blocking the national highway from Bhatkal to Gangolli in protest. Fishermen from three districts will participate in the action. If there is no response from local representatives or relevant authorities, the protesters have vowed to escalate their protest to a sit-in in front of the district administration office.
Madam Kumar, honorary advisor of the state federation, addressed the media, stating that light fishing destroys fish breeding grounds. He also pointed out a contradiction, as although the Minister of Fisheries acknowledged the ban in the legislature, statements contrary to this are being made outside, causing harm to the traditional fishing community.
The protest will continue until unscientific fishing practices are stopped, Kharvi said. The press conference also featured Yashwanth Kharvi, general secretary of the state federation, Nagesh Kharvi, vice president, and members Ram Kharvi and Chandra Kharvi.