In Kerala, trawling operations by mechanised boats along the state’s coast will come to a standstill at midnight tonight, with the enforcement of the 52-day ban on fishing activities. It will remain in force till the 31st of next month. 

Traditional inboard fishing vessels have been exempted from the purview of the ban. Diesel bunkers at harbours and fish landing centres will remain closed for the entire ban period.

The state government has instructed fishing vessels from other states to leave the Kerala coast before midnight. Round-the-clock Fisheries Control Rooms have started working in coastal districts since the 15th of last month. Fishermen will be provided free rations during the ban period.

The Kerala government has been enforcing the annual ban since 1988, aimed at lessening the impact of fishing activities on marine ecology. It coincides with the fish breeding season, thus contributing to the replenishment of marine fisheries resources.