The maintenance work on mechanised fishing boats is progressing in full swing in Thoothukudi, ahead of the annual inspection of trawlers scheduled for May 26 in the district.

In line with the commencement of the annual fishing ban season in the east coast of Tamil Nadu on April 15, the operation of mechanised boats has been strictly prohibited. Fishermen usually use this 61-day ban period for the maintenance of boats.

From Thoothukudi district, around 550 mechanised boats have been docked ashore, this includes around 250 in Thoothukudi fishing harbour, 280 in Tharuvaikulam and 33 in Vembar.

The boat maintenance work includes, repairing boat engines, welding and carpentry works, painting, repairing fishing nets and in some cases new nets are also purchased and prepared for future use.

K. Keniston, a boat owner from Thoothukudi said that during the maintenance period, the primary focus would be given on fixing issues in the engines, change of propeller, if required.

“If the boat is brought to the dock, the maintenance work of the entire boat will cost up to ₹4 lakh, including welding, painting and other necessary works,” he added.

He noted the propellers are usually purchased from Rameswaram or Cochin, depending on the boat owner’s preference. A new propeller costs around ₹2 lakh, while exchanging of old propeller for a new can reduce the cost by up to ₹50,000.

Mr. Keniston further noted that many boat owners also purchase fresh sets of fishing nets, with a new set typically costing around ₹1 lakh.

According to a press statement from Thoothukudi district administration, the annual inspection of registered and unregistered mechanised fishing boats would be conducted on May 26, while the inspection of country boats scheduled for June 5.