Kerala intensifies crackdown on illegal fishing during monsoon breeding season

Kochi: As the southwest monsoon strengthens across Kerala, fisheries authorities have intensified efforts to protect native freshwater fish species during a crucial breeding season.

The Fisheries Department has launched a special enforcement drive against illegal fishing practices that target fish migrating from rivers into streams, canals and paddy fields to spawn.

The annual migration, locally known as "Oothakayattam", sees fish swim upstream in search of suitable breeding habitats. Officials said many of the fish caught during this period are carrying eggs, while others are juveniles that have not yet reached maturity.

Authorities warned that the capture of breeding and juvenile fish can severely affect fish populations and undermine the long-term sustainability of inland fisheries.

Special patrols have been deployed in areas where illegal fishing activities have been reported. According to the department, there has been an increase in the use of trap nets and other unauthorised fishing devices that block waterways and prevent fish from reaching breeding grounds.

Officials said such practices can result in large numbers of fish being caught during migration, disrupting natural reproduction cycles.

Under the Kerala Inland Fisheries and Aquaculture Act, 2010, catching breeding fish or juvenile fish is a punishable offence. The law also prohibits the installation of nets or other structures that obstruct the natural movement of fish.

Other prohibited activities include fishing without a licence, using nets with a mesh size of less than 20 millimetres, fishing in protected sanctuaries, and employing poison, electricity or explosives to catch fish.

The department has also cautioned that sharing or promoting videos that encourage illegal fishing activities may attract legal action.

Violations of the Act can result in fines, imprisonment or both. While first-time offenders may face monetary penalties or jail terms, repeat offenders are liable to stricter punishment.

The enforcement campaign aims to safeguard fish stocks during the breeding season and ensure Kerala's inland water bodies continue to sustain fishing communities in the years to come. (PTI)