Karwar: Deputy Commissioner S S Nakul has issued orders to seize diesel subsidy passbook of fishermen those involved in violating monsoon ban on fishing.

As many as104 motorised boats have been engaged in LED fishing, despite the ban. Each one of these boats have been attracted with a penalty of Rs 30,000. The DC has instructed officials to ensure those who have not paid fines do not get subsidised diesel. The State government has issued strict instructions to boat owners against deep sea fishing using heavy LED lights at night. Despite ban, several boats ventured into deep sea fishing, with officials slapping fines on owners. 

“Among 104 violaters, only two boats' owners have paid the penalty. The remaining owners have to pay fine of Rs 30.60 lakh. DC has asked department to collect the entire amount without fail,” Fisheries Department Deputy Director P Nagaraj said. 

The ban on deep sea fishing will be lifted from August 1.