Pulicat fishermen demand GPS-based fishing zone demarcation

Fishermen operating in the waters around Pulicat lagoon have submitted formal requests to both state governments urging the adoption of GPS-based demarcation systems to delineate fishing grounds between the two states.

The move comes amid growing tensions over territorial jurisdiction and resource allocation in the shared waters. Fishing communities argue that precise digital mapping of boundaries would eliminate ambiguity regarding which state's regulations apply in different zones, reducing conflicts between vessels and enforcement authorities.

Local fishermen representatives have emphasized that clear demarcation would facilitate better coordination between Tamil Nadu and Andhra Pradesh maritime authorities, enabling more effective regulation and preventing unintentional violations. They contend that existing informal boundary systems lack the precision needed for modern resource management.

The proposal aligns with broader calls for modernized fisheries management in coastal regions where overlapping jurisdictions have historically created compliance challenges. Officials from both states have been approached to consider implementing the GPS-based framework, which could serve as a model for other interstate maritime zones in the region.

The demarcation issue remains unresolved, with stakeholders awaiting a coordinated response from both state governments on the feasibility and timeline for implementing the proposed system.