South 24 Parganas: Dwindling fish supply idles 60% trawlers, prices soar

• Many trawlers in South 24 Parganas face closure, with 60% already stopped, due to a significant drop in fish supply in the sea.
• The scarcity has led to low fish availability in markets, including Hilsa and other marine fish, resulting in exorbitant prices for the limited catch.
• Fishermen cite high operational costs and low catches, leading to alleged overfishing of small fish to compensate for losses.
• Water pollution from cargo ship oil spills is hindering fish reproduction, contributing to the declining fish population.
• Concerns are rising among fishermen and traders about the future availability of fish if current problems persist.

Why It Matters: Declining fish stock threatens seafood supply, prices, and marine life.