VISAKHAPATNAM: After a 61-day halt to protect marine life during the breeding season, fishing activity resumed in full force along the Andhra Pradesh coast on Saturday night. Over 1,900 mechanised and motorised boats in Visakhapatnam district alone returned to the sea on June 14, as the annual fishing ban officially ended.
Each vessel, carrying between eight to ten fishermen, marked the beginning of a fresh season. The ban, enforced under the AP Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1994, was in effect from April 15 to June 14.
It aims to conserve fish and shrimp stocks during their critical breeding period and applies to all registered motorised and mechanised boats operating within state waters.
In the hours before the ban lifted, the fishing harbour bustled with activity. Fishermen were seen repairing nets, servicing engines, painting boats, and stocking up on ice and diesel. “Not all boats set out immediately,” said one fisherman.
“Some of us are still working on repairs, which could take a week or more.” The cost of preparing a boat varies widely. “While a few need only basic touch-ups, others require major engine repairs or part replacements,” a boat owner said.
“A single trip costs Rs 3 to Rs 6 lakh. To break even, we need to earn at least twice that.”
According to fishermen, about 70% of boats are expected to resume trips in the first week. The rest are delayed due to factors like lack of ice, fuel shortages, or funding constraints.
“Fuel prices are rising fast. The Rs 19 per litre subsidy from the state helps, but it’s not enough,” said another operator.
Fishing trips vary in duration. Some boats return by evening, while others stay out for days. With cooler sea temperatures this year and good rainfall, fishermen anticipate a promising season.
“The weather has been favourable. If fish rise closer to the surface, the catch will be better,” they said. For daily-wage fishermen and boat renters, the ban often brings financial stress. “We take up odd jobs like construction or transport to make ends meet,” one said. “The Rs 20,000 government support was helpful, but not enough for everyone.”
Before heading out, many fishermen observed age-old traditions, praying to sea goddess Gangamma for safety and VV “It’s our ritual before any big outing,” a crew member noted.