Date:11/07/2005 URL: http://www.thehindubusinessline.com/2005/07/11/stories/2005071100441300.htm

Back In dire straits

H. Vibhu

The monsoon has plunged the lives of lakhs of fishermen in Kerala into turmoil. After restricted fishing hours and a 45-day ban on trawling, plummeting prices have added to their woes. Sardines that fetch Rs 20 a kg in the retail market are now auctioned off at Re 1 a kg. About 5,000 boats operate out of Kochi and neighbouring fish landing centres.