Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (NJC)

Mangaluru, Apr 9: Fishermen operating from the Mangaluru fishing harbour have raised concerns over the irregular supply of diesel at a fuel outlet managed by the Coastal Minority Primary Fishermen’s Cooperative Society. Boat owners have urged authorities to ensure a systematic supply of fuel through a disciplined token system.

Addressing a press conference at the Press Club on Thursday, April 9, Abubakar Ashraf, treasurer of the Trawl Boat Owners’ Association, stated that around 500 fishing boats operate under the society. He noted that while disruptions in fuel supply are being attributed to fluctuations caused by conflicts in the Middle East, diesel supply at four other pumps in the harbour remains reportedly unaffected.

Irregularities in token system

Diesel is typically distributed to fishing boats through a token system. However, boat operators alleged that for the past two weeks, the supply has not been in accordance with the issued tokens, causing significant hardships. Despite assurances from both the central and state governments that there is no fuel shortage, it has been alleged that the minority fishermen’s pump is charging an additional Rs 8 per litre.

Ashraf also pointed out that due to a prevailing shortage of fish, only about 20% of boats are currently venturing into deep-sea fishing. Even with this reduced activity, fishermen continue to face severe fuel-related challenges.

Demands for welfare and transparency

The association demanded that the Minority Primary Fishermen’s Cooperative Society extend membership to all boat owners and conduct a general body meeting immediately. They further insisted that the society's income be utilized for the welfare of economically weaker fishermen.

Boat owners including Thwayyab Ahmed, Abdul Rahman Zahir, Faizal Abdul Rahman, Abdul Ghafoor, and Mohammed Ajjal were present at the press conference.