Chennai, Tamil Nadu: Fish prices witnessed a sharp rise at Chennai’s Kasimedu fishing harbour after a decline in daily catch affected supply across the market. Traders and consumers reported higher prices for several popular seafood varieties as fewer fishing boats returned to shore.
According to market sources, only around 30 fishing boats arrived at Kasimedu harbour recently, compared to the higher number usually seen during busy market days. The reduced supply has impacted availability and pushed up prices across multiple fish categories.
Experts and fishermen attributed the lower catch to changing sea currents, rising temperatures, rough sea conditions, and the onset of the summer season, all of which have affected fishing activity along the Tamil Nadu coast.
Prices Rise Across Popular Varieties
The fall in supply has resulted in a noticeable increase in seafood prices:
- Vanjaram fish is being sold at around Rs 1,000 to Rs 1,100 per kg.
- White pomfret prices have touched nearly Rs 1,200 per kg.
- Prawns are selling between Rs 400 and Rs 500 per kg.
- Sankara fish is priced between Rs 350 and Rs 400 per kg.
- More affordable varieties such as Kavalai remain available between Rs 100 and Rs 200 per kg.
Similar Situation Across Coastal Tamil Nadu
Fish traders said similar price trends are being seen in several coastal districts, including Thoothukudi and Kanyakumari, where deep-sea fishing activity has slowed due to weather conditions.
Although country boats continue operating in areas such as Nagapattinam and Rameswaram, rough seas and reduced fishing operations have affected overall supply.
Rising diesel prices and transportation costs have also contributed to the increase in seafood prices across markets.
Consumers have been advised to purchase fish during early morning hours when availability is relatively better and to consider lower-priced varieties as market prices remain volatile.
