• Prevailing severe shortage of fuel prevents them from using mechanical boats

By Hiran Priyankjara 

Fisher folk in Puttalam and Chilaw areas have reverted to their traditional double canoe raft in view of the prevailing shortage of fuel. They said they were not prepared to waste their time in queues to purchas e few litres of fuel for their boats. 

A fisherman in Puttalam Antony Fernando said the fishermen who had been using the double canoe raft switched to mechanical boats about 15 years ago to reap a rich harvest and to save time. He pointed out that the prevailing severe shortage of fuel prevents them from using mechanical boats. 

“We have not reverted to the use of rafts willingly, but for want of fuel. Our families would starve to death if we gave up our trade. The use of raft is a tedious task that causes fatigue, but we have no alternative,” he said.
 He further said the fishermen in several other areas including Kalpitiya were switching to this traditional method to make a living.