Eastern waters free from restrictions

Ridma DISSANAYAKE

The fishing restrictions which were in force in the Eastern seas for security reasons, have been lifted with effect from Wednesday.

The fisheries industry in the Eastern Province suffered setbacks during the last three decades due to LTTE terror and the fishermen had to eke out their living with limited access to fishing grounds.

They will have greater access to engage in their livelihood.

The Navy request fishermen to make maximum use of the opportunity. They are requested to refrain from illegal fishing practices and to cooperate with law enforcement officials to ensure the safety of fishing grounds and sea areas.

Due to the terrorist activities, coastal fisher families had been left destitute and fish resources rendered under-utilized for over two decades.