Fishermen clash over use of ring nets in Vizag, 4 boats set on fire

Visakhapatnam: A clash broke out between fishermen of the Chinajalaripeta and Pedajalaripeta areas in Vizag city over the use of ring nets in the restricted area of the Bay of Bengal. A group of fishermen set fire to six fishing boats of another group of fishermen creating a tense atmosphere in Vasavanipalem and Jalaripeta areas.

There have been clashes between fisherfolk who use traditional nets and those who use ring nets in Vizag. While ring net fishing is banned within eight kilometers of the coast, the practice continues unabated.

On Tuesday, a group of fishermen with ring nets ventured into the waters to fish. Another group of fishermen who use traditional nets came to know of this and protested. The two groups got into an argument that led to a clash. One group set fire to six fishing boats of another group in the waters.

A large number of policemen rushed to the spot to pacify the fishermen and prevent further untoward incidents.

"We have imposed Section 144 at Vasavanipalem and Jalaripeta areas in Vizag city and set up police picketing at Mangamaripeta and Fishing Harbour to prevent possible clashes between the two groups," said city police chief Manish Kumar Sinha.

The coastal security police (marine police) at Rushikonda have registered a case and investigation is on, he added.

It may be recalled that more than 12 villages in Vizag have been opposing the use of rings nets citing that the nets will catch very small fish leading to depletion of marine species such as fish, prawns, and crabs.

The decision to restrict the use of ring nets was taken as sea creatures, including Olive Ridleys, are getting trapped in them. However, defying the decision, some people are fishing in the restricted area using the banned nets.

The officials of the fisheries department have decided to convene a meeting of the leaders of the two groups of fishermen to come to an amicable settlement.