Due to the severe low-pressure area that has developed in the sea area around the island, the Ministry of Fisheries strictly warns the entire fishing community to refrain completely from going to sea for fishing until further notice.
This advice is valid for all fishing vessels, including multi-day and one-day vessels.
The Department of Meteorology predicts that this inclement weather condition may persist at least until 29th of November, with sea waves reaching 4-5 meters and wind speeds reaching 80 kilometers per hour.
The severity of this bad weather was tragically confirmed in 27th of November morning when the multi-day fishing vessel bearing IMUL-0020-TCO capsized while attempting to enter the Valachchenai Harbour. In this accident, a fisherman named J.M. Rikas is missing and search and rescue operations are underway.
Addressing a special media briefing, the Director General of the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, Mr. Susantha Kahawatte, explained the extensive security arrangements that have been implemented. “This is not a situation to be taken lightly. Even in the sea close to the coast, there is a very high risk for all vessels. We have prohibited the departure of vessels from all fishery harbours and landing sites. Our main focus is to ensure the safety of fishermen,” he said.
The Ministry has issued the following decisive instructions:
* Deep-sea vessels: Vessels currently in the deep sea, especially in the eastern sea of the island where a cyclone situation may develop, are strictly advised to proceed immediately to the nearest safe places.
* Coasting vessels: Small vessels moored on the coast are requested to move as far as possible towards the land as to protect themselves from heavy waves and tidal waves.
* Safety of the harbour: Multi-day vessels moored in busy ports such as Galle, Matara, Tangalle are requested to use safety measures such as old tires to prevent damage from collisions. Several vessels at the Galle Fishery Harbour have already been diverted to the commercial harbour.
Secretary to the Ministry of Fisheries, Dr. B. K. Kolitha Kamal Jinadasa confirmed that all ministerial officials, including assistant directors of district offices and managers of harbours are on high alert. "We are in constant contact with the authorities of Disaster Management Centre and the Meteorology Department. Our goal is to manage this situation without any damage," he said.
The Ministry urges the fishing community not to take risks expecting high fish prices during this period, and asks them to inform the Disaster Management Center's hotline (117) or the Regional fishery office in any emergency.
