No issue in consuming seafish, will conduct quality checks on fish: Minister Saji Cherian

THIRUVANANTHAPURAM: Fisheries Minister Saji Cherian stated that there is no problem in consuming seafish in the wake of the recent cargo ship accident. He urged the public to ignore misleading propaganda and assured that there is currently no cause for concern. The minister clarified that while some reports are claiming that toxic waste has washed ashore, no hazardous situation has been reported from any location so far.

"Officials have been directed to conduct immediate quality checks on fish from coastal regions of Thiruvananthapuram, Kollam, Alappuzha and Kochi. The government has also decided to launch awareness campaigns to ease public fear. Seafood festivals such as 'matsya sadya' will be organized under the leadership of trade union representatives and youth organizations to boost the fish market," the minister said.

"Currently, fishing has been banned within 20 nautical miles from the shore. However, we are considering limiting this restriction only to the area around the sunken vessel. We intend to pursue action against a prominent media outlet for presenting the news in a way that created public anxiety. A final decision will be made following discussions with the central government. The process of removing the containers is underway, and so far, no hazardous materials have been discovered. The government also plans to coordinate with the Centre to look into relief measures for the impacted fishermen," he said.

Additionally, the minister announced that the annual trawling ban in Kerala will begin on June 9 and will last for 52 days.