Fishermen aghast with trawlers

PADANG, West Sumatra: Thousands of traditional fishermen and owners of fishing platforms at Tiku Beach in Tanjung Kutiara district, Agam regency, are worried about the illicit operation of 30 trawlers in their area.

A local fisherman, identified only as Yal, told The Jakarta Post that the operation of the trawlers had affected their incomes.

"We normally get Rp 350,000 a day, but now we get only Rp 80,000 due to the decrease in our daily catch," Yal said, adding that the trawlers started operating in the area last week.

The fishermen usually sell their catch at the local auction site.

According to Yal, there are about 3,000 traditional fishermen who depend on the local waters to make a living.

"We hope that the administration will take prompt action to stop the trawlers' operation," he said.

Yosmeri, head of the local fishery, husbandry and marine office, said he had sent a letter to the naval base in Teluk Bayur Port to ask for help. He did not elaborate. (28/sur)