UDUPI: Though 20 days are left for the start of ban on deep sea fishing during the monsoon, over 500 deep sea trawlers have anchored at the Malpe Port, thanks to shortage of space at the Malpe harbour. Usually, the deep sea fishing boats anchor at the harbour just a day prior to the ban.But this year, boat owners do not want to take the risk of not getting a berth for their boats and have started anchoring from May 24.The ban starts from June 15 and will remain effective till August 10."The harbour at both the first and second stage can together accommodate as many as 800 boats. With more than 1,200 deep sea boats in the Malpe region waiting to be anchored, there is a competition like scenario among boat owners to anchor as early as possible. It is a kind of self-imposed ban, said Malpe Fishermen's Association president Hirianna Kediyoor. Work on the third stage of the harbour is expected to begin after this monsoon.Meanwhile, chances of boats anchored outside the harbour getting damaged are high. Last year too, two boats were damaged, hence the rush this time, he added.Naveen, a fisherman, said as the boats have returned 20 days in advance, many fishermen have lost their jobs.Only above 10 HP deep sea trawlers come under the ban. Some boats still venture for fishing when the rain is less. Those who venture in to deep sea fishing during the ban period will disqualify for the benefits of diesel subsidy. Any casualty during this period is not eligible for compensation or other benefits.
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