Forest wing suspects Somasila fishermen behind sanders smuggling
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Nellore: Suspecting involvement of outsiders disguised as fishermen in Somasila dam in red sanders smuggling, the forest department started doing background checks of those fishing in Somasila reservoir. They were surprised to find that majority of the licence holders for fishing in Somasila are non-locals. Forest officials embarked on the exercise in view of red sanders dumps found under the water frequently. Moreover, fishermen were found transporting them in catamarans too.
“In the past most of the licence holders were from East and West Godavari districts, as was evident from their dialects. They engaged others from outside too for fishing, although it is against the rules. Some women also hold licences but questioning them during a recent visit to Hill Colony, a fishermen habitation in Somasila, showed they hardly go for fishing. Surprisingly, many dwellings had air conditioners,” a forest official said, indicating other sources of income.
The official said that they are collecting details of all fishermen and would verify their licences with the data available in fisheries department. When contacted, Mr Narayana, assistant director of fisheries department, said that they have permission to issue 800 licences but only 390 fishermen living in and around Somasila dam have obtained the licences so far.
According to Mr Narayana, the period of licence is only for one year and the fee is Rs 110 if the length of the fishing net is 100 feet. Depending on lengths of nets, fees are charged. The fishermen pay Rs 10 for a catamaran or boat and are restricted from using engine boats in Somasila. It is mandatory for those interested in fishing to produce ration card details as residential proof to obtain the licence.
Apart from fishermen, licences are issued to Girijans and others also, if they claim that they are eking out a living by fishing. Fisheries department officials are under the impression that only those depending on fishing apply for living. But forest officials are keen on examining the antecedents of the licensed fishermen with the help of police as they strongly believe that something is fishy.
( Source : dc correspondent )
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