John Wilbert & Vikramaditya
Port Blair, Feb03: The Fishermen Community of Kadamtala region were sitting on a dharna since 28 January 2021, demanding permission for fishing in nearby sea area, as it was allowed before COVID-19 period.
Taking swift action to solve the problems of fishermen community of Kadamtala the Deputy Commissioner of North and Middle Andaman, Dr. Angel Bhati Chauhan conducted two meetings with the delegation of Fishermen groups on 29 January and 2nd February 2021.
Finally due to efforts of the Deputy Commissioner the Fishermen Community of Kamdatala has declared to end the dharna. The decision was taken yesterday evening by the Fishermen Community after a delegation of Fishermen came back from Mayabunder after attending a meeting with the Deputy Commissioner of N & M Andaman.
Along with fishermen, Mr. Subrata Basu a social worker of Kadamtala was also present in the meeting at DC Office of Mayabunder.
According to protesting fishermen, due to COVID-19 pandemic, the Andaman and Nicobar Administration had restricted movement of fishermen on creek around Kadamtala area, leading to both eastern and western sides of the sea. This was done to make sure that COVID-19 infection does not reach inside Jarawa Reserve area, situated adjoining Kadamtala region.
Fishermen maintained that during the pandemic they suffered heavy financial losses due to such restrictions.
As per details during the meeting yesterday it was suggested that a check post will be set up in one of the small Island near Jarawa Reserve Forest and creek, so that a watch can be maintained on the movement of all dinghies of Kadamtala fishermen. It was also suggested that from 5 AM to 5 PM, movement of fishermen dinghies in groups may be allowed and fishermen should not be out in sea for more than one night.
However, the final decision will be taken only after officials of various departments talk to fishermen of Kadamtala next Monday and finalize the entire SOP for fishermen, sources in Kadamtala told Andaman Sheekha.
