Rain spoils Amreli fishermen’s livelihood, seek relief package

Rajkot: Unseasonal rainfall has adversely impacted fishermen’s catch in Jafrabad taluka of Amreli district. The 2-day incessant rain poured losses in crores in Jafrabad after the region received the highest rainfall on Friday at 50 mm. Fishermen living along the Amreli coast have now demanded special relief package from the state government to compensate their loss of catch.
Most parts of the Saurashtra region, especially the coastal parts, witnessed heavy downpour on Friday and Saturday. According to fishermen, they put their catch for drying on the coast before sending these to other places or export to other countries.
“Fishermen were not expecting rains at all and had put their fishes in the open grounds for drying. However, the weather suddenly changed and the rain left most of the fish unfit for sale, thus making the fishermen run their losses in crores as they have to dispose of the fish. We request the government to announce a relief package for the affected fishermen,” Kanaiyalal Solanki, president, Jafarabad Boat Association, told TOI.
“The state government should conduct a survey and provide relief package for the loss suffered due to the natural calamity,” said Rajula MLA Amrish Der. “Estimates peg Jafrabad fishermen’s loss to the tune of Rs 4 crore,” said Vishwesh Solanki, a fisherman from Jafarabad.