Tamil Nadu government moves to release detained Chennai fishing vessels in Andhra waters

The Tamil Nadu fisheries department announced that the state government is acting to resolve a longstanding dispute between Chennai‑based fishing vessels and fishermen from Andhra Pradesh. About 200 Chennai trawlers, including roughly 200 motorised boats, have operated off the Andhra coast for decades, leading to recent tensions over declining fish stocks. Andhra authorities have detained seven of these vessels within 12 nautical miles of the state under the 1976 Indian Maritime Zones Act, prompting protests from Andhra fishermen.

In response, Tamil Nadu officials, including the fisheries and fishermen‑welfare directorates, have arranged a two‑state joint committee meeting at Nellore on 11 July 2026. The committee is seeking the immediate release of the detained boats and a coordinated approach that allows Tamil Nadu fishermen to continue fishing in the shared maritime zone without further legal confrontations. Senior officials from both states, along with district administrators, have participated in multiple consultations to find a “smooth” resolution.

The state government also plans to issue further orders to facilitate normal fishing activities for Tamil Nadu boats in the contested waters, emphasizing the livelihood of the fishermen and regional cooperation.