The Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources has advised the fishermen to suspend all fishing activities in the sea areas extending from Panadura to Negombo via Colombo with immediate effect.

The fishing activities have been suspended following the salvage company involved in X-Press Pearl vessel indicated that the vessel is sinking at the current position.

“The fishing boats could face the risk of colliding with debris of the distressed ship and thus, we have advised them not to go for fishing,” it said.

The Department has also suspended vessels entering from the Negombo Lagoon.

Meanwhile, State Minister Kanchana Wijesekera said all preventive measures had been taken to protect the Negombo lagoon and adjoining areas and also to contain the damage from any debris or in case of an oil spill. (Sheain Fernandopulle)