Kundapur, March 19, 2025: Authorities have fined three boats for engaging in illegal light fishing within the jurisdiction of the coastal security police station. A special operation was conducted at the Gangolli fishing harbour, after which the Udupi district joint director of fisheries was notified to take legal action. Following an inquiry, a total fine of Rs 16,000 was imposed on the boat owners.
During the inspection, another boat was found equipped with a generator for light fishing. The owner was fined Rs 5,000, and the generator, along with the lighting equipment used for the prohibited method, was confiscated before the boat was released.
To combat illegal light fishing and bull trawling, a joint flying squad comprising officials from the fisheries department and coastal security police has been formed. The team is conducting regular inspections at Malpe and Gangolli harbours to enforce regulations effectively.