The Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour is bustling with activity as fishermen prepare for the end of the 61-day annual fishing ban on June 14. The ban, intended to conserve marine species along the Visakhapatnam coast, concludes at midnight, allowing fishermen to resume their activities. Many fishermen are set to sail starting at 9 pm on June 14.
Fishermen were observed repairing boats, loading ice, painting ships and performing other maintenance tasks in anticipation of their return to the sea. Despite the imminent end of the ban, not all boats will venture out immediately due to logistical challenges such as incomplete repairs, ice availability, funding and labour shortages.
“We all don’t head out at the same time or even on the same day. Some of us are still finishing repairs, which might take another week or so,” one fisherman explained. “The cost of repairs varies depending on the damage. It could be as simple as painting or minor renovations, or more significant work like replacing motors and other parts. Generally, for a trip, we invest around Rs 3 to 4 lakh, and we need to catch at least double that amount to sustain our business,” he added.
Vasupalli Janakiram, President of the Andhra Pradesh Mechanised Fishing Boat Operators Association, stated, “There are currently 2,000 motorised and 700 mechanised boats that venture into the sea from Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour. About 70 per cent of them are expected to go out after the ban is lifted. The remaining 20 to 30 per cent, facing issues with ice, oil and other repairs, will likely head out a bit later.”
He noted that 15 ice factories at the harbour produce ice for the fishermen, with no current scarcity. However, the price of ice is Rs 1,700 per tonne. “Fishermen like me, who do not own boats but rent them, take up odd jobs during the ban to support ourselves. Boat owners with better financial stability use their savings, take loans, or do labour jobs. We are hopeful for a good catch and profitable returns this season,” said another fisherman. In preparation for the fishing season, the fishermen annually celebrate Gangamma Jatara, offering prayers to the goddess. Thousands are expected to participate in the event on Tuesday.