Prominent fishing associations in Mangaluru have issued a clear statement distancing the local fishing community from a protest march being organized by the Communist Party of India (Marxist) in the Bunder area. The Karnataka Purse-Seine Meenugarara Sangha and the Mangalore Trawl Boat Meenugarara Sangha emphasized that their members are not participants in the political agitation.
Fishing Community Stands United
Addressing reporters on Monday, Chethan Bengre of the Mangalore Trawl Boat Meenugarara Sangha underscored the unity within the fishing fraternity. He stated that fishermen in the region work together regardless of caste or religious differences. Bengre revealed that all their demands have been pursued with the state government through a united action committee. This committee, a significant collective force, includes representatives from 63 different fishermen organizations across Karnataka.
Bengre also directed criticism towards the CPM, questioning the party's commitment to the welfare of fishermen. He pointed out a practical concern: If CPM leaders were genuinely concerned, they could assist fishing boats from Karnataka that face hefty fines in the neighbouring state of Kerala, where the CPM is in power. He urged the party to ensure that fishermen hailing from Mangaluru are not harassed when operating in Kerala's waters.
Focus on Harbour Development and Infrastructure
Shifting focus to developmental progress, Anil Kumar, president of the Purse Seine Fishermen Association, provided details on crucial infrastructure projects. He announced that the long-pending work on the third phase of the Mangaluru fisheries harbour has finally received approval. This phase is set to be developed at a substantial cost of Rs 49.5 crore.
Kumar further explained that due to the poor condition of the old wharf, the association has been actively pushing for upgrades. As a result of their efforts, various development works under the already ongoing Phase 1 and Phase 2 are being executed. The total investment for these first two phases amounts to Rs 37.5 crore. Combined, the three phases represent a major infrastructure investment of Rs 87 crore aimed at modernizing the fishing harbour's facilities.
Implications and the Road Ahead
The clarification from the fishing bodies highlights a strategic choice to engage with authorities through established, unified committees rather than affiliating with specific political party movements. It underscores a community prioritizing direct dialogue and tangible development projects over political symbolism.
The statements also bring interstate fishing tensions, particularly with Kerala, into the spotlight, framing it as a test of political will for parties governing neighbouring states. The substantial financial commitments to the fisheries harbour development signal a positive step towards improving the operational base and livelihoods of Mangaluru's fishing community, which remains a key economic pillar for the coastal city.
