The lane will be open for fishing in February

Fisheries and Marine Resources Minister Ahmed Shiyam said the channel would be opened for fishing in February.

The government has decided to re-allow inland line fishing in Sri Lanka in a bid to increase economic activity and diversify the fishing industry.

Responding to a question from PSM on swim channel fishing, Minister of Fisheries and Marine Resources Ahmed Khiyam said swim channel fishing will generate huge revenue for the state. He said the channel will be open for fishing in February after the works are completed.

“We intend to open the longline fishery in February. In the meantime, we are working with all stakeholders and interested parties. We will develop rules based on public input to make the waterways open to the fishery as safe as possible,” he said.

While Sri Lanka will reauthorize alley fishing, the government is also working to expand and promote other fisheries-related activities.

The minister said inland fisheries are expected to generate an additional $120 million in revenue for the state.

Lane fishing was carried out in Sri Lanka from 2012 to 2019. Lane fishing has since been suspended and the Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources has now reopened lane fishing. Lane fishing permits are open for bigeye tuna, yellowtail tuna and hibernator.

The Department of Fisheries and Marine Resources said the lane will be monitored after it reopens to prevent illegal fishing. They will be required to depart from ports designated by the ministry, obtain departure permits before departure and install cameras on boats.

President Khiyam said Mr. Mohamed Muizou’s policy is to increase profits from sea routes. The Minister of Fisheries said he is working to commercialize marine aquaculture as an independent industry.