Banned nets used at Sassoon dock, allege fishermen

Mumbai: The fishing community has claimed that despite the state government’s decision to ban the use of purse seine nets for fishing, several boats at Sassoon docks are using these banned nets. President of Akhil Machhimar Kruti Samiti Damodar Tandel stated that after a study by the expert committee, it was found that these nets are harmful to marine species, yet they are being used by several boats. He also claimed that state government had failed to crackdown on the use of banned nets. He claimed that around 50 boats use this technique at Sassoon dock currently. 

“The state government had earlier cancelled 494 licensed for purse seine net fishing vessels as it was observed that these are harmful to the marine life. However still around 50 boats use the technique at Sassoon dock,” said Mr Tandel.

Earlier in 2012, the central government had directed the Maharashtra government not to allow any unethical, illegal and harmful fishing practices including purse seining irrespective of the jurisdiction.

“These nets not only catch bigger fish but their eggs and other tiny fish are also entangled in the nets. The fisheries department has turned a blind eye to it. It is also happening in other areas of Maharashtra like Palghar, Sindhudurg and Ratnagiri. We will be demonstrating a protest against the state government if no action is taken within a week,” added Mr Tandel.

Meanwhile, an official from the fisheries department said, “Incidents of illegal nets being used to catch fish has come to us. We will be taking actions against the violators after proper investigation.”