May 27, 2010

Fish prices in India are set to rise further as the annual trawling ban during the monsoon begins June 15.

A kilo of Seer fish is already costing INR 400 (US$8.55) as against INR 250 (US$5.35) last year.

For 45 days from June 15, the sea along the Kerala coast extending to 12 nautical miles will become silent as boats and trawlers are beached and fishermen wait for the monsoon fury to subside before going out to sea again.

"The trawling ban will extend for 45 days," Chief Minister V.S. Achuthanandan told reporters. He said no mechanised boats will be allowed to fish.

The ban on fishing during monsoon was first introduced in 1988 with the main aim of fish conservation. The period is the spawning season for many varieties of fish, including shrimp.