As the new fishing season began on Monday, the Coast Guard warned the fishermen to be cautious while venturing into the seas as the monsoon seems to be growing vigorous this year. DIG, Coast Guard, M V Baadkar while briefing the media on Monday evening, said, “the CG organizes special community interaction programmes with fishing communities at various fishing villages to brief them about safety guidelines before venturing into the seas.” He added, “The caution will also be applicable to all water sports operators and leisure crafts operating in the seas.” The Coast Guard has urged the fishermen to carry adequate life-saving equipment, biometric cards, boat documents, temporary repair kit, extra fuel and ration on board. The fishermen have been asked not to employ any minor at the sea to check the worthiness of boats. They have requested the fishermen to call on toll free No. 1554 for any eventuality in the sea or on seeing any unknown boat/vessel in the sea. Besides ships, the CG has been operating helicopters for swift response to maritime search and rescue, pollution and maritime reconnaissance capabilities for the coastal security of the state. In this regard the Coast Guard has also requested the directorate of fisheries to re-sensitize the community on various safety aspects this season.
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