Maharashtra Fisheries Department Seizes Karnataka Vessel for Illegal Fishing
A fishing vessel from Karnataka was confiscated in Maharashtra for breaching maritime regulations, highlighting ongoing illegal fishing concerns.
The vessel 'Shri Mata' was seized for unauthorized fishing in Maharashtra's waters.
Ten crew members were on board, and the vessel's owner is from Udupi, Karnataka.
This marks the fourth operation against illegal fishing in the Devgad area this season.
In a significant enforcement action, the Maharashtra Fisheries Department seized a fishing vessel from Karnataka early Sunday morning for allegedly fishing illegally within the state's maritime boundaries. The operation took place around 4:30 AM off the coast of Devgad, where a patrol team from the local Fisheries Department identified the vessel named 'Shri Mata', which was registered in Karnataka.
The vessel was found to be engaged in unauthorized gillnet fishing, violating the provisions of the Maharashtra Marine Fishing Regulation Act, 1981. The registration number of the boat is IND-KA-02-MM-2803, and it is owned by Harshini Shashidhar B Kunder from Mallarpu in Udupi. The inspection revealed that there were ten crew members aboard, including the captain, referred to as 'tandel'. Following the seizure, the vessel was safely transported to Devgad port, where the auction process for the fish onboard has already begun.
This incident is part of a broader effort by the Maharashtra Fisheries Department to combat illegal fishing activities in the region. Local fishermen have raised concerns about boats from other states infringing upon Maharashtra's territorial waters, leading to damage to their fishing nets and reduced availability of fishing space. The department has been actively responding to these complaints, conducting regular patrols and inspections under the guidance of Assistant Commissioner Sagar Kuveskar.
The Fisheries Department has noted that this operation is the fourth of its kind during the current fishing season, indicating a persistent issue with illegal fishing practices. The department is committed to taking stringent action against any vessels, whether local or from other states, that violate fishing regulations. Nitesh Rane, the State Minister for Fisheries and Port Development, has emphasized the importance of these operations in protecting local fishermen's interests and maintaining order in Maharashtra's waters.
Looking ahead, the Fisheries Department plans to submit a detailed report to the Assistant Commissioner of Fisheries in Sindhudurg, which will facilitate further legal action against the vessel's owner. The department's ongoing efforts aim to deter illegal fishing and ensure compliance with maritime laws in the region.
