The fishing ban in Rameswaram has caused a significant drop in fish supply, resulting in a sharp increase in prices. With mechanised boats prohibited from fishing along the east coast, the arrival of fish in Ramanathapuram, particularly in Pamban, has been severely impacted.
Traditionally, Pamban witnesses a bustling fishing activity with over 500 country boats engaged in fishing. However, due to the ban, only traditional country boats and shore trawling fishing operations are active in other coastal areas.
Experts note that while around 10 tonnes of fish were usually brought in daily, the quantity has plummeted to approximately five tonnes since the ban came into effect on April 15. This scarcity has triggered a surge in demand, leading to a notable increase in fish prices at wholesale markets.
Local fish trader Kattar highlights that fish prices have soared by an average of Rs 100 to Rs 150 per kilogram. The absence of religious festivals during this period has further intensified the demand for fish, particularly in April and May.
The rise in prices has adversely affected local traders who typically purchase fish in bulk from the Pamban fishing harbour and distribute them across Ramanathapuram and neighbouring districts. On Sunday, prices of various fish varieties skyrocketed, with Kumula fish doubling from Rs 80/kg to Rs 150/kg, Sheela fish reaching Rs 1,200 to Rs 1,400/kg from the usual Rs 800/kg, Veelai increasing to Rs 400/kg from Rs 250 to Rs 300/kg, and Palsora selling at Rs 550/kg compared to its previous price of Rs 350/kg.
Locals anticipate that fish prices will remain high until June, posing challenges for both traders and consumers in the region.
