Port Blair, May 29: The Coast Guard Regional Headquarters (A&N) conducted a meeting with Owners and Masters of fishing boats on 27 May 24 to discuss the difficulties being faced by the fishermen at sea. The event witnessed active participation of fishermen from Port Blair, reps from Fisheries dept. and Police Marine Force.

DIG Ashish Srivastava, Chief of Staff, Coast Guard Region (Andaman and Nicobar), chaired the meeting and discussed the issues related to fishermen safety at sea. Fishermen were advised on significant safety aspects viz. buddy system fishing, not to venture into the sea during inclement weather warning, assist each other in emergency, carry adequate live saving equipment and valid ID proof (Aadhar/ Biometric) onboard.

During the interactive session fishermen brought out issues such as requirement of long range two-way communication systems and development of fishing boat maintenance facilities at Port Blair. 

Fishing community being eyes and ears of ICG, were also briefed about the significance of swift sharing of information and advised to continue their support by reporting any unusual event and incident to the nearest Coast Guard unit or Police Marine Force.