Big win for the coastal community in Raigad.
Just as the 61-day monsoon fishing ban ended on August 1, thousands of fishing boats were ready to return to sea. But a sudden directive from the Fisheries Department barred fishermen from purchasing tax-free diesel from Indian Oil crippling operations on day one.
The abrupt restriction sparked outrage across Raigad. Fishing associations protested, highlighting the massive financial setback caused by docked boats and lost days. Local media, including Saamana, amplified the issue, putting pressure on the administration.
By August 5, Fisheries Commissioner Kishore Tawde reversed the ban, restoring access to subsidized diesel. Boats that had remained idle for days have now resumed operations, salvaging whatโs left of a critical season for coastal livelihoods.
Thousands of fishermen depend on timely diesel access to power their boats. With the rollback of this decision, a crucial supply chain lifeline has been restored.
This is not just a policy update itโs a reminder that community voices, when united and amplified, can drive change even in the face of bureaucratic hurdles.
The fisheries economy, especially in districts like Raigad, is highly sensitive to such administrative bottlenecks. As we scale efforts to empower marine communities, timely coordination between departments remainsย essential.