July 07, Colombo (LNW): The National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) has raised concerns about the impact of bottom trawling by Indian fishermen on marine resources in Sri Lanka’s waters.
Director Ganapathypillai Arulanandan highlighted the damaging effects of this fishing technique, particularly in the North Sea, where it has led to a notable 50 per cent decline in fish stocks since 2015.
Arulanandan attributed this decline to the destruction of coral reefs and seaweed beds, crucial habitats for fish breeding, caused by bottom trawling.
Acknowledging the difficulties faced by Sri Lankan authorities in curbing illegal fishing activities, Arulanandan called for stricter enforcement measures and increased international collaboration to protect the marine resources in Sri Lanka’s waters.
