Speakers call for action plan to boost safety of small-scale fishers amid climate threats

A workshop held in Machilipatnam on Monday called for a practical action plan to enhance the safety of small-scale fishers, safeguard their rights and livelihoods, and guarantee the enduring sustainability of marine fisheries amid climate change. Organized by the District Fishermen’s Youth Welfare Association and FISHCON, with backing from BOBP-IGO, the event emphasized the severe consequences of cyclones, floods, and other climate-related disasters on fishing communities.

Approximately 70 fishers from various districts expressed the necessity of bolstering the weather forecasting system to receive timely weather alerts. The fishers acknowledged that such events impact fish availability, fishing seasons, and fishing infrastructure. They advocated for insurance schemes, compensation for income loss during natural disaster bans, and the establishment of safe shelters, secure fish landing centers, storage facilities, and evacuation plans to shield fishing communities during calamities.

Emphasizing the significance of awareness programs on fishing regulations, training for Fisheries Department officials, free legal aid, and protecting traditional fishing communities from displacement due to coastal development projects, the speakers stressed the urgent need for these measures.