Visakhapatnam: Unstable weather patterns in the Bay of Bengal have thrown fishing activities in Visakhapatnam, Andhra Pradesh, into disarray, forcing many fishermen to stay ashore and struggle to sustain their daily livelihoods.
As the turbulent conditions continue, most boats remain docked at the harbor, dealing a heavy blow to the livelihoods of local fishing communities who depend entirely on the sea for income.
A local fisherman, Appanna, explained: "We do not get even a single rupee from the owners. They say what are we getting to give you. Not much fish this time, no income hence. Our livelihood is like this... We are unable to sustain, unable to raise kids and provide them education."
While a boat owner, Balaji stated, "For farmers they somehow get some compensation, but for us there is no such situation, no funds for us. We have to take care of our own living. We do not get any compensations, except for a yearly grant and PMMSY (The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana) scheme... Unless boat is in an emergency situation, we do not get any help."
With fishing operations coming to a halt and the harbor appearing deserted, coastal residents are now appealing to the government for immediate financial assistance and welfare support to tide over the ongoing crisis.