The fishers argued that those engaged in marine fishing are not large industrial units capable of absorbing higher fuel costs charged at consumer outlets.
| Photo Credit:
H.VIBHU
With only a few days left for the commencement of the annual monsoon trawling ban, the fishing community has approached petroleum marketing companies seeking the opening of more retail outlets in coastal areas for supplying diesel to fishing boats.The Federation of Fishing Boats and Fisheries Industries of Kerala said the dependence on existing retail outlets has become increasingly difficult due to the heavy rush of regular customers and the large number of fishing vessels that need to refuel within a limited time window before heading out to sea.Citing the situation in Vypeen, the Federation pointed out that there is only one retail outlet catering to around 150 fishing boats apart from other vehicles. The organization urged oil companies to either permit diesel supply to fishing boats through Marine Consumer Outlets at prices equivalent to regular retail outlets or establish additional retail outlets dedicated to the fishing sector.According to the Federation, petroleum companies had earlier rejected the demand for supplying diesel to fishing boats through Marine Consumer Outlets at retail outlet prices, citing various government interventions introduced at different points in time.The fishers argued that those engaged in marine fishing are not large industrial units capable of absorbing higher fuel costs charged at consumer outlets. They said the sector deserved sympathetic consideration as fishing sustains thousands of families and contributes to the country’s foreign exchange earnings.The Federation also recalled that it had earlier appealed to Narendra Modi to intervene and ensure adequate diesel supply to marine fuel outlets amid recurring shortages.Published on May 26, 2026
