Tarun Karthick
Sri Vijaya Puram, 10 February 2025
Fishermen in Great Nicobar Island are facing significant challenges as the ice plant unit under the Fisheries Department, located at Campbell Bay, has not been functioning properly for several months, leaving the local fishing community struggling to preserve and sell their catch.
The Fishermen’s Committee of Campbell Bay and the Pradhan of Govind Nagar Panchayat have repeatedly raised concerns and requested urgent repairs. Despite assurances, no action has been taken to address the issue of improper ice cube production.
In a letter to the Directorate of Fisheries, the Fishermen’s Committee expressed deep frustration, stating that multiple verbal and written requests had been ignored. The absence of a properly functioning ice plant facility has disrupted the livelihood of hundreds of fishermen who depend on it.
“The situation is becoming unbearable. Without proper ice, a large portion of our catch goes to waste, leading to financial losses for fishermen,” said a member of the Fishermen’s Committee.
The letter further warns that if immediate repairs are not carried out, the Fishermen’s Committee will launch a Dharna (protest) starting on February 27, 2025. The community has given the Fisheries Department 17 days to resolve the issue and prevent further hardship for the fishermen.
With fishing being the primary source of livelihood for many families in Great Nicobar, the ice plant and cold storage facility plays a crucial role in preserving the quality of their catch.
The fishermen are now waiting for the authorities to take swift action to restore the proper functioning of the ice plant facility and provide relief to the struggling community.