Boat seized for using artificial light for deep-sea fishing in Kozhikode
Illegal fishing practices are under scrutiny after the Marine Enforcement Wing seized a Tamil Nadu-based fishing boat using high-powered LED lights.
Illegal fishing practices are under scrutiny after the Marine Enforcement Wing seized a Tamil Nadu-based fishing boat using high-powered LED lights.
Illegal fishing practices are under scrutiny after the Marine Enforcement Wing seized a Tamil Nadu-based fishing boat using high-powered LED lights.
Beypore: A boat, named Amala Urpavam Matha owned by Sahaya Raju of Valanar Colony in Kadiyar Pattanam, Kanyakumari district, was intercepted during a surprise inspection at the harbour by the Marine Enforcement Wing and found that it was equipped with gear used for deep-sea fishing by creating artificial light.
Officials recovered seven high-powered LED bulbs of 200 and 500 watts from the vessel during the inspection.
According to the Fisheries Department, the boat was using excessive lighting to lure fish shoals, an illegal method known to contribute to the depletion of marine resources.
Officials said a case will be registered against the boat owner under the Kerala Fisheries Regulation Act and warned stern action against all vessels engaged in such practices.
The operation was led by Marine Enforcement Sub Inspector T K Rajesh as part of ongoing measures to curb unscientific and unauthorised fishing practices. Marine Enforcement Sub Inspector K Rajan, senior Civil Police Officer Manu Thomas, Rescue Guards J S Vighnesh, M Tajuddin, P Vishwajith and K Bilal were part of the inspection team.