August 09, Colombo (LNW): The Ministry of Fisheries has commissioned a scientific assessment of fish stocks in Sri Lankan waters amid reports from fishing communities that catches have been declining.
Deputy Minister of Fisheries Rathna Gamage said the ministry has asked the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) to conduct a comprehensive study into the current status of fish populations in the sea surrounding Sri Lanka.
The assessment will also examine whether changing ocean conditions associated with a possible El Niño event could affect the distribution and availability of fish, as well as the overall productivity of the fishing industry.
According to the Deputy Minister, the findings will be used to guide future decisions on fishing activities and the management of marine resources.
The ministry is expected to consider the scientific recommendations when determining measures aimed at protecting fish stocks while ensuring that fishing communities can maintain their livelihoods.
