ICAR-CIFT Promotes VSOB For Sustainable Trawl Fishing

Visakhapatnam: In an effort to enhance fuel efficiency and promote sustainability in the trawl fishing sector, ICAR-Central Institute of Fisheries Technology (ICAR-CIFT), Visakhapatnam, has developed and is actively promoting the V-form double-slotted otter board (VSOB) across India.

The innovative technology marks a significant advancement in trawling by reducing fuel consumption and CO2 emissions during trawler operations. Extensive trials of the VSOB have shown that it can save around 2 to 3 liters of diesel per hour of trawling. Depending on various factors, this translates to a savings of 15-20 liters of diesel per day. With widespread adoption, even at a 50 per cent adoption rate, the technology has the potential to save millions of liters of diesel annually, leading to substantial cost savings for the trawling industry and contributing to environmental conservation by reducing greenhouse gas emissions.

Trawling, known for being one of the most energy-intensive fishing methods, heavily relies on diesel, which contributes to operational costs and greenhouse gas emissions. ICAR-CIFT’s VSOB offers a sustainable solution that could reduce both the fuel dependency and environmental footprint of trawler operations. To promote this breakthrough, ICAR-CIFT recently organised a workshop cum awareness Programme in collaboration with the State Fisheries Department. Dr. U Sreedhar, Scientist-in-Charge & Principal Scientist, ICAR-CIFT, highlighted the importance of sustainable and responsible trawl fishing. He emphasised ICAR-CIFT’s commitment to responsible fishing practices.