Mangaluru, Apr 16: The usually vibrant Old Port in Mangaluru has fallen unusually quiet, with long rows of fishing boats lying idle under the harsh summer sun. Nearly 85% of the city’s fishing fleet—around 1,300 trawlers and purse seine boats—has been forced to stay ashore as an intense pre-monsoon heatwave disrupts marine activity and threatens livelihoods.

Season Ends Early

Although the annual fishing ban typically begins in June, this year’s season has effectively drawn to a close nearly two months ahead of schedule. Fishermen say rising sea surface temperatures in the Arabian Sea have driven commercial fish species into deeper, cooler waters, leaving coastal nets largely empty.

“We are spending close to ₹7 lakh on a single deep-sea trip, but returns are barely ₹2 lakh,” said Chetan Bengre, president of the Trawl Boat Owners’ Association. “Going out to sea now almost guarantees losses.”

Triple Blow to the Industry

The crisis has deepened due to a combination of factors:

Fish migration: Key species such as mackerel and sardines have shifted to deeper waters due to warming seas.

Fuel and export uncertainty: Geopolitical tensions in West Asia have disrupted export markets and caused fluctuations in diesel supply.

Labour shortage: Many migrant workers have begun returning home early amid poor earnings and extreme heat, leaving boats short of crew.

Prices Rise, Livelihoods Hit

With supply shrinking, retail fish prices in Mangaluru and nearby districts have risen by 20–30%. While officials say this is not a long-term “fish famine,” the abrupt slowdown has put severe financial strain on thousands of families dependent on daily auctions at the Bunder harbour.

As the heatwave continues, the sight of anchored boats at the port reflects a growing uncertainty within the fishing community, now looking ahead to the monsoon in hope of recovery.