Chennai, April 15
The 61-day annual fishing ban along Tamil Nadu’s coast began in the early hours of Tuesday and will continue until June 14.
The ban, implemented under the Tamil Nadu Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1983, is aimed at protecting marine biodiversity during the peak breeding season.
During this period, mechanised boats and trawlers are prohibited from venturing into the sea.
According to the Ramanathapuram district administration, nearly 1,500 mechanised vessels across various coastal jetties have been anchored, including 809 boats in Chennai alone.
In Thoothukudi district, more than 550 mechanised boats at the Thoothukudi, Tharuvaikulam, and Vembar fishing harbours will remain ashore.
Fishermen leaders have urged the Tamil Nadu government to step up coastal surveillance to prevent illegal fishing during the ban.
They have called for the deployment of the Indian Coast Guard and the state’s marine police to monitor the waters and identify violators.
“We must ensure no unauthorised fishing takes place, especially by boats from Kanniyakumari or Kerala. The fisheries department must remain alert,” said Pugal, Secretary of the Deep Sea Fishermen Welfare Association.
Traditional country boats, however, are allowed to operate during the ban in Tamil Nadu.