Udupi: Deep-sea fishing operations resumed at Malpe harbour on Wednesday after improved weather and calmer sea conditions allowed fishing vessels to venture into the Arabian Sea. Around 15 deep-sea trawlers operated by Tamil Nadu fishermen set sail, marking the beginning of fishing activity after days of delay caused by adverse weather.
Although the fishing season had officially commenced earlier, operations remained suspended as the India Meteorological Department (IMD) had issued cyclone warnings, prompting fishermen to keep their boats anchored as a precautionary measure.
Fishing resumes after weather improves
With sea conditions returning to normal, fishermen have gradually begun resuming deep-sea fishing operations from Malpe, one of Karnataka’s major fishing harbours.
The departure of around 15 trawlers on Wednesday signalled the revival of fishing activity, bringing relief to boat owners, fishermen and traders who had been waiting for favourable weather to begin the season.
Authorities and fishermen had closely monitored weather forecasts over the past few days before deciding it was safe to venture into the sea.
Cyclone warnings delayed operations
Despite the official start of the fishing season, deep-sea fishing had remained on hold due to cyclone alerts issued by the IMD.
The warnings, coupled with rough sea conditions and strong winds, prevented boats from leaving the harbour to ensure the safety of fishermen and vessels.
Fishing communities said the delayed start had affected their schedules and income, as the early weeks of the season are considered important for commercial fishing.
More boats expected to sail
According to Karunakara Salian, president of the Deep-Sea Trawl Boat Fishermen’s Association, a large number of deep-sea trawlers are expected to resume operations over the coming days if favourable weather conditions persist.
He said that most boats are likely to head into the sea within the next week as confidence grows over stable weather and calmer waters.
Fishermen remain optimistic that uninterrupted operations will help compensate for the delay caused by the recent cyclone warnings.
Hope for a productive fishing season
The resumption of fishing activities is expected to boost fish landings at Malpe harbour and support the livelihoods of thousands of people engaged in the fishing industry, including boat owners, crew members, traders, transporters and fish vendors.
With the southwest monsoon gradually stabilising along the Karnataka coast, the fishing community hopes the coming weeks will provide suitable conditions for a productive season.
However, fishermen have said they will continue to monitor IMD advisories closely and prioritise safety before venturing into the sea whenever weather conditions change.