Daijiworld Media Network - Udupi (SP)

Udupi, Nov 4: Fishing boats had been moored at the fishing port at Malpe near here since the last ten to 12 days on account of perceived threat by cyclones. As the giant waves have died down, these fishing boats feel that they can safety take to the seas now. The boats are now ready to sail into the sea for fish catches.

On Saturday, 70 to 80 boats had left from Malpe fisheries port. Most of the remaining boats were ready to go fishing since Sunday midnight.

After ‘Kyarr’ cyclone wreaked havoc some days back, the fishing boats had rushed back to the shore. After the cyclonic influence tapered down, they were ready to go fishing but the meteorological department warned them of an impending cyclone which was expected to be formed on account of depression in atmosphere near Lakshadweep. The fishing boats therefore stayed where they were. At that time, the sea had turned turbulent and sea erosion was also experienced. Luckily, the cyclone named 'Maha' failed to live up to the predictions and eased its way towards Oman. Because of improvements noticed in the sea, the boats feel that the time is ripe to go fishing.

Because of volatile climatic conditions in coastal Karnataka, fishing activity has been battered this time. Fishermen have been facing problems one after the other right from the day the fishing season began, and purse seine boats in particular have been making losses.

Because of the warning about cyclone, issuance of diesel to fishing boats has been suspended till November 6. Therefore, currently only a few boats which have stock of diesel are conducting fishing very near to the shore. Ganesh K, deputy director of fisheries, said that the meteorological department has warned about the effects of 'Maha' cyclone till November 6 and as such, bunks have been asked to stop subsidized diesel supply till then. At the same time, warning through microphones have been issued at the port on a regular basis, he added.