VIJAYAWADA: The 61-day annual fishing ban, imposed from April 15 to June 14 under the AP Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1994, has left 13,789 fishermen families in Krishna district struggling without income, as boats remain docked and marine activities come to a halt.
The ban prohibits fishing using motorised, non-motorised, and mechanised boats to conserve fish and shrimp during the breeding season. Traditional wooden rafts may also be restricted. As per the fisheries department, 2,270 boats, including 2,131 motorised, 73 non-motorised, and 66 mechanised vessels, have been anchored.
The ban has impacted both men and women in the fishing community. While men typically go fishing, women are involved in sorting, packing, and selling. Many now seek alternative work, but struggle due to limited skills and opportunities.
Fisherman Singothu Jagadeesh from Tallapalem in Machilipatnam rural mandal said he is working as a mason to earn a living. “We don’t get farm work either. We take up any labour that comes our way,” he said.
Koda Bujjibabu, another fisherman, said many survive by using their savings or turning to moneylenders. “Earlier, NGOs and public representatives provided us with essentials like rice and vegetables. That support has stopped,” he added. K Ramesh of Chinnapuram said he focuses on repairing nets and boats during the ban but continues to face financial strain.
“The government’s financial aid helps us,” he said. The government has announced Rs 20,000 assistance under the Mastyakara Bharosa scheme, to be distributed from April 26.
Krishna District Fisheries Department Joint Director A Nagaraja said all fishermen voluntarily halted fishing and a Government Order with guidelines is expected soon.