Inspired by the success stories of its neighbouring states, Karnataka is set to implement a proven method to boost fish breeding in its coastal regions. Artificial reefs will be strategically placed at 56 locations along the coastal lines of Dakshina Kannada, Udupi, and Uttara Kannada districts, following the footsteps of Tamil Nadu and Kerala.
Tamil Nadu and Kerala have witnessed significant increases in fish quantity after employing artificial reefs for four to five years. A team of experts from the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) has assessed the feasibility of the scheme by visiting the designated spots. The introduction of artificial reefs, initially pioneered by CMFRI officer Jokilakudan in Tamil Nadu fishing ports, has demonstrated that placing these reefs at specific locations in the sea enhances fish breeding, leading to a substantial increase in fish catch.
Scientist Jokilakudan explains that artificial reefs, positioned around six nautical miles into the sea, provide shelter and breeding grounds for fish. Positive results are expected within a year of implementing this method. Additionally, the deployment of artificial reefs is anticipated to discourage illegal fishing techniques such as gillnet, trawling, chauri chauri fishing, and light fishing, as fishing near these reefs becomes challenging. To monitor and regulate these reefs, they are geo-tagged.
In Dakshina Kannada and Udupi, 20 locations have been identified, including Someshwara, Ullal, Panambur, Baikampady, and others. The remaining 36 spots are earmarked in the Uttara Kannada district, benefiting purse seine and traditional fishing methods. This initiative marks a significant step towards sustainable fisheries management and conservation practices in Karnataka’s coastal areas.
