Mullaitivu District Fishermen's Association made accusation that their livelihoods are affected due to the encroachment of Southern fishermen. This issue which emerged after the war came to an end remains unresolved.
Anthonippillai Mariathas, the Chairman of Mullaitivu District Fishermen's Association, who stated that encroachment of Southern fishermen is increasing, pointed out that there is no power to control the encroachment of them.
Due to the encroachment and occupation of the Southern fishermen in the seas of Mullaitivu, fishermen of Mullaitivu District are in an unable position to get involved in fishing. This encroaching activity is fully supported by the police and army.
While the encroachment of Southern fishermen prevails from Kokkulai to Mullaitivu town, encroachment in the seas of Mullaitivu where final stage of the war took place is continued. Due to that, the war affected people face enormous difficulties to receive their livelihoods.
Meanwhile, as the Southern fishermen are engaged in fishing in Nayaru area, people from there are severely affected, he further added.
In the meantime, occupying Sri Lankan military is engaged in fishing in Nandikadal lagoon where final stage of the war took place. The military soldiers deployed there are engaged in fishing for their needs.
Consequently, the traditional fishermen of this area are severely affected. Though it is made aware, the inability of putting full stop to these encroachments continues, fishermen of Mullaitivu District said.
