Amreli: Fishermen at Jafrabad port in Amreli district are facing difficulties after the range of their satellite phones was significantly reduced from 70–80 nautical miles earlier to 20 nautical miles since Operation Sindoor.

Gujarat has the longest coastline in India, and thousands of fishermen depend on the sea for their livelihood. Satellite phones play a crucial role in ensuring their safety, especially during emergencies at sea.

Fishermen leader Kanhiyalal Solanki said that these satellite phones are licensed by the Government of India and operate on BSNL connections. Despite being expensive, many fishermen have purchased them to ensure safety while fishing in deep waters.

According to fishermen, around 10 satellite phones at Jafrabad port are currently not functioning properly, and their range has been reduced to just 20 nautical miles. Earlier, the range was between 70 and 80 nautical miles.

Solanki said the range was reduced during Operation Sindoor without prior notice. He added that fishermen usually travel up to 70–80 nautical miles for fishing, and the reduced range makes it difficult to communicate during bad weather or emergencies.

“We are not asking for any subsidy. We only want the original range restored so that the phones we purchased can function properly and ensure our safety,” he said.

Fishermen say these phones are a lifeline during storms, helping them stay connected and seek assistance. They fear that the reduced range could put lives at risk.

Meanwhile, Prant Officer Mehul Barasar said the issue has been brought to the notice of the authorities. “During Operation Sindoor, the range was reduced keeping national security in mind. The fishermen’s association has now submitted a representation highlighting the difficulties caused by the reduced range. The matter will be conveyed to the concerned authorities, and efforts are being made to resolve the issue at the earliest,” he said.

Fishermen have urged the government to restore the earlier range of 70–80 nautical miles to ensure their safety at sea. DeshGujarat