Malpe fisheries port: 24 hours security

Udupi: It has been decided to provide 24 hours security for the boats, fishermen and tourists at Malpe fisheries port. The important decision was taken at a meeting conducted under the leadership of SP Nisha James on Monday.

The boat owners associations have been informed to appoint private security staff for the safety of their boats. Besides, it has been decided to conduct patrolling through a team which includes CSP, Fisheries Department and fishermen. It has also been decided to keep a point book at the petrol bunk and for the police and CSP personnel to conduct night patrols.

Fishing warden

Satish Kunder of the fishermens’ association and others requested the installation of CC cameras, Hi-mast lighting, street lights and repair of the dysfunctional, for the security of the boats which ae berthed during the days when there is no fishing. The officials of the Fisheries Department agreed to this demand. Discussions were also held regarding the appointing of Fishing Warden to document the movement of the boats and the fishermen.

It was decided to take essential actions for the safety of the tourists. It was notified that in case of a natural disaster or a fire, the boats should not be berthed in such a way so as to prevent the free movement of the fire tenders or police vehicles and also, fishing nets should not be left on the roads. Food should not be prepared on berthed boats. No repair work must be conducted after 6pm in the evening and minimal amount of fuel must be on-board the vessel.

Action against illegal activity

Legal action will be taken against boats from other states and illegal fishing. A proposal has been sent to the government to pass an order giving the provision of fining such boats to Rs 2.5 lakh, informed the Deputy Director of the Fisheries Department.

Colour coding to be completed within months

The colour coding of all mechanized bats has been completed and the colour coding of traditional boats has been completed by 60%. The remaining will be completed within three months, informed Deputy Director and officials. The Joint Director of the Fisheries Department said, biometric cards have been prepared and a camp will be conducted for its distribution to those who have not received it.

MLA Lalaji Mendon police, Coastal Security Police (CSP), officials of the Fisheries Department and officials of the fishermens’ associations participated in the meeting.

Free transponder requested

The officials informed the vessels which have been installed with transponders for effective communication during an emergency must register themselves with the Mercantile Marine Department (MMD). Meanwhile, the fishermen requested that the equipment be provided for free by the government since it was expensive. If the equipment is bought en-masse, then the company will reduce its prices, advised the officials.