Fishermen’s Concerns Being Addressed at District and Provincial Levels – Deputy Minister Ratna Gamage
The Ministry of Fisheries, Aquatic and Ocean Resources has reaffirmed its commitment to enhancing development infrastructure and safeguarding the livelihoods of Sri Lanka’s coastal communities. At the Mannar District Fisheries Coordination Committee meeting held today (24 June 2025) at the Mannar District Secretariat, key decisions were announced to address long-standing issues faced by the fishing community in the region.
Hon. Minister Ramalingam Chandrasekar, addressing the media following the meeting, announced that the government will proceed with the establishment of a fully-fledged fisheries port in Pesalai, Mannar District. He emphasized that this project, scheduled for implementation in 2026, will be supported by the World Bank, and is expected to significantly boost the local fisheries economy and infrastructure.
“There is currently no designated port in Mannar District. The proposed port in Pesalai will fill this critical gap. We understand that there may be concerns among the local population, and we urge government officials, the Government Agent, and other stakeholders to engage directly with the community to clarify the economic and social benefits of the proposed port,” the Minister said.
On the issue of illegal encroachment by Indian fishermen, the Minister expressed confidence that this challenge can be decisively addressed. He noted that coordinated action is already underway involving the Sri Lanka Navy, relevant ministries, and diplomatic channels to prevent further incursions into Sri Lankan waters.
“We acknowledge the concerns raised by our fishing communities. The government, in partnership with the Navy, is taking appropriate measures to halt these cross-border activities. I am confident that the illegal entry of Indian fishermen can be fully curtailed in the near future,” he stated.
Additionally, the Minister confirmed that discussions are ongoing concerning the release of lands previously acquired by the Navy, and expressed his belief that suitable resolutions will be implemented in due course.
Deputy Minister Ratna Gamage, also present at the event, highlighted the Ministry’s ongoing outreach to fishing communities across the Northern and Eastern Provinces, assuring that their grievances are being systematically resolved through district and provincial mechanisms.
“We are committed to finding lasting solutions for our fishermen. The establishment of the Pesalai port is a landmark step in that direction, alongside broader efforts to strengthen maritime livelihoods,” the Deputy Minister added.
Representatives of Mannar District’s fishing community expressed their sincere appreciation to the Ministerial delegation and the Sri Lanka Navy for the proactive steps taken to deter illegal fishing and protect local livelihoods.
The meeting was attended by a wide array of stakeholders, including the Additional Secretary of the Ministry, Mannar District Government Agent, Divisional Secretaries, Sri Lanka Coast Guard, Police, environmental organizations, and representatives from fisheries-related institutions such as the Sri Lanka Fisheries Ports Corporation, Sri Lanka Fisheries Corporation, National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), and the National Aquaculture Development Authority (NAQDA).
