Sri Lanka’s Fisheries Minister Calls on CM Vijay to Implement a Ban on Bottom Trawling to Protect Marine Life

Sri Lanka’s Fisheries Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar has called on Tamil Nadu Chief Minister C. Joseph Vijay to ban bottom trawling, a fishing method outlawed in Sri Lanka since 2017. He emphasized the need for diplomatic dialogue to resolve the fisheries conflict plaguing both Indian and Sri Lankan fishermen in the Palk Strait. Minister Chandrasekar expressed his willingness to visit Tamil Nadu to meet with the newly elected Chief Minister, hoping to discuss these pressing issues directly.

Addressing the media in Kilinochchi, Chandrasekar referred to recent arrests of Tamil Nadu fishermen, stating that these actions are not arbitrary but are rooted in the illegal nature of bottom trawling which devastates marine resources. He noted that around 25% of the population in northern Sri Lanka relies on fisheries for their livelihood, and the method threatens their way of life. Minister Chandrasekar reiterated that until Tamil Nadu officials take strict measures to ban the practice, incidents like the recent arrests will continue to occur.

While congratulating Mr. Vijay on his electoral victory, Chandrasekar urged him to advocate for serious changes in fisheries management. He described the Chief Minister’s outreach to India’s External Affairs Minister regarding the release of the detained fishermen as a positive step, but stressed the importance of understanding the context of these arrests. By addressing the root cause of the conflicts, such as illegal fishing practices, both regions can work towards a sustainable and peaceful resolution.