Chennai residents in certain waterlogged areas continue to face challenges after Cyclone Michaung, but a surprising turn of events has unfolded at the Kasimedu fishing harbour. Despite lingering water issues in parts of the city, the weekend witnessed a substantial arrival of more than 1,000 tonnes of various fish species, impacting market prices.
The state fisheries department reports a notable influx of groupers, Kalavaan, Indian goatfish (Kendal), seer fish (Vanjiram), red snapper (Sankara), and abundant prawns. This sudden abundance has led to a drop in fish prices in the market. V Balaji, owner of a fishing boat at Kasimedu harbour, highlights the increased demand for grouper fish, particularly from export-oriented markets like China, Malaysia, and Thailand. Additionally, rockfish catches by some fishermen have contributed to the unexpected post-cyclone bounty.
Balaraman, a trader at the Kasimedu market, attributes the surge in prawn availability to the extensive movement caused by cyclone-induced rains. Fishermen venturing out after the cyclone have returned with significant quantities, causing a decrease in prices. For instance, the wholesale cost of the vanjiram variety, usually priced at 1,000 per kg, has dropped to 600 per kg. Similarly, the popular red snapper is now available at half its regular price.
Muthukumaran, the secretary of the Deepsea Fishing Boat Owners’ Association, notes the uncertainty among boat owners regarding their post-cyclone catch. However, the discovery of groupers indicates a positive outlook for Chennai fishermen, suggesting the availability of export-quality fish species in the upcoming days.
Source: Times of India
