Trawling ban end fails to cheer fishers as adverse weather spoils their plans

The lifting of trawling ban off the Kerala’s coast has failed to bring the much-anticipated cheer in the fishing sector as the shores remained inactive, thanks to inclement weather.

Though hundreds of trawlnet boats and workers, including migrant workers, had geared up to venture out into the deep sea for fishing after the 52-day break in the early hours of Saturday (August 1, 2026), most vessel operators had to postpone their plans following a warning from the India Meteorological department (IMD). The IMD had warned fishers against venturing out into the sea off Kerala, Karnataka, and Lakshadweep on Friday (July 31, 2026) and Saturday in view of possible gusty winds and inclement weather.

A section of boats went to the sea from harbours in Kochi despite the warning. However, a few of them returned soon as the weather was not favourable. A few large vessels, around 20 metres long, which proceeded to sail were yet to return.

“More boats will go to the sea in the coming days from Kalamukku harbour at Vypeen. In the initial days, we are expecting a good catch of pink perch,” P.P. Gireesh, secretary, Trawlnet Boat Owners Association, said.

The traditional fishing sector, meanwhile, remained disappointed as the trawling ban period did not help it much. Traditional and artisanal fishers expect the ban period to bring a bounty to them as only they are legally permitted to fish in nearshore waters while mechanised trawlers remain ashore.

“This time, the catch was visibly poor, mainly due to dry weather conditions. The lack of expected income has pushed the traditional fisherfolk into a financial crisis as it has affected their financial plans, including repaying loans availed to mend their boats,” Yesudas Parappilly, district secretary, Matsyathozhilali Union (CITU), said. He urged the government to conduct a detailed study into the traditional fisherfolk’s plight and announce a package for them.