Challenges for Sri Lankan Fishermen Amid Economic and Climate Crises

In Sri Lanka, fishermen like Babarandage don Sarath Appuham, a veteran fisherman of Negombo Lagoon, are grappling with unpredictable tide patterns and diminishing fish catches due to climate change. These changes have forced them to adapt their daily routines, often facing rough waves that make fishing ventures risky.

Sri Lanka, with its extensive coastline, relies heavily on fishing, a primary source of animal protein for its population. Traditional fishing methods vary across regions, each tailored to the local marine life. For example, in Kalpitiya, fishermen use fine nets for smaller fish, while larger meshed nets in the south are suited for mackerel and tuna.

The country’s worst economic crisis in history is putting additional pressure on these fishermen. The cost of essentials like beans and vegetable oil has skyrocketed, affecting the livelihoods of fishermen like Sarath and their families. The crisis has led some, like beach seine owner Sarath works for, to adopt mechanization to combat labor shortages and reduced fish populations. Despite these efforts, the catch remains insufficient to offset the increased costs.

Santhalingam Thanusanth, a scientist at the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA), notes that inflation is the most significant challenge for small-scale fishers. About half have adopted new methods like mechanization or advanced gear.

Kasun, a 32-year-old fisherman from Negombo Lagoon, echoes these challenges. He invested in tractors to aid in net hauling but struggles with the fixed costs of fuel and labor. The rising cost of kerosene and petrol has made fishing increasingly unprofitable, driving younger generations away from the profession. This labor shortage threatens the continuity of traditional fishing practices.

NARA’s senior scientists, Aruna Maheepala and K P G L Sandaruwan, highlight the diminishing appeal of fishing due to low pay and strenuous work, leading many younger people to seek alternative employment. However, options are limited, and the government’s support for fishermen is slow in the face of various challenges.

Climate change further complicates the situation. Sri Lanka’s fishing seasons are becoming less predictable due to erratic weather, rough seas, and changing fish migration patterns. This unpredictability affects fishermen’s traditional migratory routes and practices. Moreover, mechanization, while helpful, has led to coastal erosion and the destruction of endemic vegetation.

Economic constraints have forced fishermen like Ranga and his partner Attula to limit their fishing range due to high fuel costs. These constraints also affect fish wholesalers, who are reluctant to travel to remote areas to collect fish, leading to significant disparities in fish prices across the island.

Sri Lankan fishermen are facing a dual challenge of adapting to climate-induced changes in marine patterns and navigating an economic crisis that has dramatically increased their operational costs. The situation calls for innovative solutions and support to ensure the sustainability of this vital industry.

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