Storm Halts Fishing in Tamil Nadu Even After Ban Ends, Fishermen Face Fresh Crisis

Senthil Kumar
Jun 17
2 min read

The annual 61-day fishing ban may have officially ended on June 14, but the sea remains off-limits for Tamil Nadu's fishermen due to rough weather warnings issued by the India Meteorological Department (IMD). Despite the eager anticipation to return to work, hundreds of mechanised fishing boats remain anchored as authorities hold back sailing permissions.

IMD Weather Alert

The IMD has issued a forecast warning of squally winds between 45–55 kmph, gusting up to 65 kmph over the South Tamil Nadu coast, Gulf of Mannar, and Comorin region, lasting at least five days from June 14.

In response, the Fisheries Department has suspended the issuance of sailing tokens, making it impossible for mechanised boats to operate.

"We’ve already been idle for two months due to the ban. Now, just when we thought we could resume work, the weather has turned rough,” said Antony John, a fishing leader from Mattakadai.

Financial Struggles Mount

For coastal fishermen, the situation is dire. The ban already pushed many into financial stress, and this weather delay has only deepened the crisis.

“We borrowed money for food, household needs, and children’s education. Now we can’t repay any of it without fishing income,” Antony added.

Government Response

A senior official from the Fisheries Department confirmed:

“For safety, no boats will be allowed to sail until the weather improves. Once the IMD clears the alert, we will resume issuing tokens immediately.”

Fish Shortage Hits Markets

The continued halt in fishing activities has triggered a shortage of fresh fish across coastal districts, leading to price spikes in local markets. Traders warn the situation could worsen unless fishing resumes soon.

According to recent data:

550 mechanised boats are ready, registered under the Tamil Nadu Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1983
- 35 from Vembar
- 250 from Thoothukudi
- 265 gill netters
66 boats remain unregistered due to violations like excess boat length or engine power.

Conclusion

While the fishing ban is intended to support marine conservation, poor weather right after the ban has deepened the economic strain on fishing communities. As climate volatility grows, there’s a need for better support mechanisms for affected coastal populations, ensuring that sustainability doesn’t come at the cost of survival