As the 61-day fishing ban along the Visakhapatnam coast approaches, 2,059 boats are set to be anchored from April 15 to June 14, affecting the livelihoods of local fishermen. Despite the potential economic strain, officials are enforcing the ban strictly to sustain marine resources for future harvests.
According to Fisheries Commissioner A. Surya Kumari, violators of the ban face penalties, including boat seizure and loss of government subsidies. However, due to the Model Code of Conduct in place for the upcoming elections, fishermen will not receive special incentives as in previous years.
With no financial aid available, many fishermen are turning to election campaigning to earn income during the ban period. Some have joined political parties as part-time workers, while others seek alternative employment options to sustain themselves financially.
The uncertainty regarding future government support adds to the challenges faced by the fishing community, raising concerns about their financial security beyond the ban period. As they navigate these challenges, fishermen await the outcome of the elections and potential policy changes that could impact their livelihoods.