Climate Change and Fishermen In and Around Uran. Dist Raigad.(Maharashtra)

Abstract

Fish which is an important diet of millions across the world is under severe threat caused by climate change. Changes in fish population and ecosystem from climate change are likely to have resulting impacts on fisheries sector and national economics. Climate change may also directly affect fishing operations and fishing communities independently of impacts on fish and ecosystem. Uran coast which forms the part of main land of Konkan lies along the Eastern of Bombay harbor opposite Colaba. Coastal ecosystem in and around Uran is very likely to be affected by climate change. However, illiterate fishermen community is not aware regarding causes of climate change and its terrible consequences. Therefore, a survey is being conducted, on what fishermen in Uran and around Uran think about climate change, climate change science, and schemes of State and central Government of India to fight out climate change effects. The aim of the survey was to identify whether fishermen, knows that climate change is real one and their attitude towards possible issues of climate change. Over 500 fishermen in and around Uran were surveyed during January to May 2010 for their views on climate change issues. It has been noticed that most of the fishermen were unaware about climate change and its consequences. However, they are worried about declining fisheries resources. Concerned over the depleting fish count, one of the fishermen expressed view that they used to get fresh Pomfret and prawns in the creek. But due to severe chemical emission from industries, a large number of fish have died. The emission is really bad during the monsoon, which is breeding period of the fish. Response of fishermen was divided into three groups like skeptics, acceptors and undecided. Among the problems faced by fishermen limiting fishing days, quality and quantity of harvested fish was voiced by fishermen and they are looking forward to Government to protect fish resources and help to improve their standard of life. The results of present survey also reveal importance of awareness program about climate change among the fishermen community.