The World Forum of Fisher Peoples (WFFP) General Secretary from Sri Lanka, Herman Kumara has appealed the Indian and Goa government to immediately ban LED light fishing, lest the fishermen would be forced to become labourers like in the island nation, due to the depletion of fishing stocks.
Kumara was speaking at the Asia Pacific Regional Consultation for the III Nyéléni Global Forum on Food Sovereignty, organised by the International Planning Committee (IPC), which was held in Negombo, Sri Lanka, with representatives from 12 countries in attendance.
This information was shared by General Secretary of the National Fishworkers Forum (NFF), Olencio Simoes, who was attending the event.
Simoes, who is also a member of the Indian Nyeleni Steering Committee, during the field trip and conversations with Sri Lankan fishers, learned that many desperate fishers had quit fishing due to the devastating impact of LED light fishing.
“The intense lights used in this practice had completely exploited the fishing stocks in the sea, leaving them with no choice but to abandon their livelihoods,” he said.
Annamarie Kon, a fisherwoman leader from Hawaii, suggested that the Indian government should adopt a system similar to that of Hawaii, where fishing communities refrain from fishing in spawning grounds, coral areas, and other protected areas for periods ranging from 2 to 10 years. This practice has helped replenish fishing stocks and ensure their sustainability.
Simoes emphasised the urgency of the situation, stating that it is high time for the government to take immediate action to protect the already depleting fishing stocks in the country.
He called for the introduction of new legislation to safeguard the livelihoods of fishers for years to come.
The consultation highlighted the pressing need for sustainable fishing practices and effective management of marine resources to ensure the long-term viability of the fishing industry and the livelihoods of those who depend on it.