Minister of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources Ramalingam Chandrasekar has reviewed a long-standing request from Monaragala District fishermen for a fisheries anchorage at Senanayake Samudraya, during a field inspection of the reservoir.
Representatives of local fisheries societies told the Minister they have struggled for years with transport difficulties, limited access points for fishing and the absence of a proper anchorage. They renewed their appeal for a dedicated fish landing centre at a suitable location on the reservoir, arguing it would be a lasting solution for the community.
Scientists flag a breeding ground
The inspection was attended by senior officials and technical experts from the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) and the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA), who presented an assessment of environmental conditions and the state of fish stocks in the reservoir.
The experts said Senanayake Samudraya is an important ecological zone where several native fish species breed and juvenile fish mature. Building a permanent anchorage, or allowing intensive fishing in certain areas, could put fish populations at risk and disturb the natural balance of the aquatic ecosystem, they said.
Officials stressed the importance of protecting biodiversity in the reservoir, one of Sri Lanka’s largest, and said sustainable management of fish stocks was essential to the industry’s future.
Minister calls for a scientific approach
Chandrasekar acknowledged that the fishermen’s concerns are a genuine grievance that has run for many years, but said the question could not be settled administratively.
“This is not merely an administrative issue; it is a matter that must be approached scientifically,” he said. “Relevant officials have pointed out that constructing a fisheries anchorage or expanding operations at the proposed location could risk damaging fish resources. Therefore, the government is committed to finding a balanced solution that safeguards both the livelihoods of fishermen and the preservation of fish resources.”
No decision on the anchorage was announced.
Sources: Daily Mirror.
