Sri Vijaya Puram, July 22: As part of its ongoing efforts to promote sustainable fisheries and protect the marine ecosystem, the Department of Fisheries, A&N Administration, carried out a “Ghost Net Removal Drive” at the Fish Landing Centre, Junglighat today.
Ghost nets, which are lost or abandoned fishing gears, continue to trap and kill fish, turtles, dolphins, and other marine organisms long after they have been discarded. They also contribute significantly to marine plastic pollution, damage coastal habitats, and create navigational hazards for fishing vessels. Their timely removal is therefore essential for conserving marine biodiversity and maintaining a clean and safe fishing environment.
The Department of Fisheries emphasized that proper disposal of damaged fishing nets and responsible fishing practices are vital for ensuring the long-term sustainability of marine fisheries resources. Fishermen were also sensitized on the adverse impacts of ghost nets and encouraged to avoid abandoning fishing gear at sea or near fish landing centres. They were advised to deposit damaged or unusable fishing nets at designated collection points for scientific disposal.
The Department remains committed to implementing measures that support sustainable fisheries management, improve sanitation at fish landing centres, and conserve the rich marine resources of the Andaman and Nicobar Islands. Such initiatives not only help protect marine life but also enhance the cleanliness of fish landing infrastructure and create a healthier working environment for the fishing community.
The drive was coordinated by Shri Hemanto Kirtonia, In-charge, Fish Landing Centre, Junglighat, with the active participation of officials and staff of the Department of Fisheries, members of the fishermen community, and representatives of the Sri Vijaya Puram Municipal Council (SVPMC) and approximately 600 kgs of abandoned and discarded fishing nets (ghost nets) were collected and safely removed from the Fish Landing Centre premises and disposed of in an environmentally responsible manner.
The Department of Fisheries has appealed to all fishermen, fish traders, and stakeholders to actively participate in similar conservation initiatives and adopt environmentally responsible fishing practices to ensure the protection of marine biodiversity for future generations.