52-day-long trawling ban to come into effect in Kerala from June 9 midnight

Ponnani: The trawling ban, imposed as part of efforts to protect marine fisheries resources during the monsoon in Kerala, will begin from midnight on June 9.

The 52-day trawling ban will end on July 31. Fishing trawlers will have to keep 12 nautical miles away from the Kerala coast. The Fisheries Department warned of strict action against those found violating the rules.

However, traditional fishermen using canoes and inboard boats are allowed to venture into the sea even during the trawling period.

Monsoon is considered the spawning period for commercially significant fish species such as oil sardines. The reason for the ban is that it is the breeding season for fish, and any disturbance to that process depletes fish wealth.

During this period, free rations will be provided for trawlers and allied workers by the state government. District Collectors will direct boats from other states to depart the coastal areas before the inception of the trawling ban.

By the evening of June 9, the Marine Enforcement and Coastal Police will ensure that the trawling boats are moved from the sea to safer locations. The Coastal Police and Fisheries officials will be vigilant against violations of the trawling ban, and action will be taken against offenders. Any trawler which breaks the rules will be fined.