Maharashtra Minister Nitesh Rane announced on Monday that the annual monsoon fishing ban on mechanised and motorised boats has been extended till August 15 in view of the delayed onset of the southwest monsoon. According to reports from Business Standard, Rane informed the state assembly that the Centre had initially imposed the ban from June 1 to July 31 along the western coast, but a government order has now extended the same period.
The extension aims to conserve fish stocks, provide adequate breeding time for marine species and ensure the long-term sustainability of fisheries, as stated by the state fisheries minister. As reported by Business Standard, the decision would also help safeguard fishermen from risks posed by rough weather conditions, including strong winds, cyclones, unseasonal rainfall and turbulent seas during the early monsoon period.
The ban specifically applies to mechanised and motorised boats operating in Maharashtra's coastal waters during the monsoon season. According to the minister's statement to the state assembly, the extension reflects the state's commitment to maintaining sustainable fishing practices while protecting both marine ecosystems and fishermen's safety during the challenging monsoon period.
