Karwar: Delay in the release of Rs 6.88 lakh funds from the Department of Fisheries for the purchase of fishing nets and medical reimbursement has irked the fishermen of Uttara Kannada district.
The medical reimbursement of Rs one lakh each is due for Bhatkal and Karwar taluks and Rs 70,000 is pending for Ankola.
Similarly, the compensation of Rs 3.40 lakh for the damaged fishing nets should be released for Karwar taluk, Rs 1.28 lakh for Honnavar and Rs 50,000 for Ankola.
There is an option for releasing Rs 1.60 lakh for Karwar taluk, in regards to the damage to boats. Already Rs 50,000 has been sanctioned in this regard and a proposal of Rs six lakh for Bhatkal taluk has been sent to the government. But so far, the government has not given any kind of response. Apart from this, a proposal of Rs 50,000 for Ankola has been sent seeking compensation for damage of fishing nets, but only Rs 17,509 has been released. According to the fishermen, a good quality fishing net can be used for four years. But sometimes, fishes cut the net and some nets will get damaged while fishing. In such conditions, the cost of repairs crosses Rs 30,000, they added.
Nadadoni and Traditional Fishermen Association President Sadanand Harikantra demanded the local people’s representatives to drag the attention of the State government over the problems being faced by fishermen. Pressure should be put on the government to take measures for solving their problems. Otherwise, it would be difficult for fishermen to lead satisfactory lives.
The fishermen, who hardly earn money to fulfil the needs of their families have to
spend Rs 30,000 to one lakh on fishing nets. if the government gives financial aid, it would be helpful for them, he opined.
Speaking to reporters, Department of Fisheries Deputy Director Nagaraj said, a proposal has been sent to the department seeking measures to solve the problems of fishermen. Funds have been released for some cases and some are about to sanction. All the documents needed have been submitted to the department. After the release of funds, compensation would be provided to the fishermen, he added.