Sri Vijaya Puram, May 23: The Directorate of Fisheries of the Andaman & Nicobar Administration has announced a special saturation camp at Junglighat to facilitate issuance of Access Passes for eligible fishing vessels operating in the Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ), as authorities intensify efforts to ensure regulatory compliance, vessel monitoring and lawful fishing operations in the region.
According to the Directorate, all mechanized fishing vessels and motorized fishing vessels measuring 24 metres and above are required to obtain an Access Pass to carry out fishing activities in the EEZ under prevailing operational provisions. The department also stated that motorized fishing vessels exclusively engaged in tuna and tuna-like fishing activities are eligible for issuance of the Access Pass.
Officials said the Access Pass system is aimed at strengthening monitoring and surveillance of fishing activities while also ensuring seaworthiness, safety compliance and adherence to conservation measures within the EEZ.
In order to ensure complete coverage of all remaining eligible vessels yet to obtain the mandatory clearance, the Directorate of Fisheries, in coordination with the Fisheries Survey of India (FSI), Sri Vijaya Puram Base, will organise an Access Pass Application Saturation Camp at the Fish Landing Centre (FLC), Junglighat, on May 23 at 10 am.
The department stated that the camp is intended to assist boat owners and fishers who have not yet completed the application process through the ReALCraft Portal, the online platform through which Access Passes are issued after verification of vessel-related documents and seaworthiness conditions.
Officials said the camp would provide on-the-spot assistance and handholding support for submission of applications, including help with document verification and uploading of required records on the portal.
The Fisheries Department has requested all owners and operators of eligible mechanized fishing vessels, as well as motorized vessels involved in tuna and tuna-like fishing operations, to attend the camp along with the necessary vessel documents in order to complete the formalities.
Authorities said obtaining the Access Pass is essential not only for lawful operation in the EEZ but also for maintaining an effective regulatory framework for marine resource management and fisheries governance.
The move comes amid continued efforts by the Administration to streamline monitoring mechanisms for fishing activities in the region, particularly within the EEZ where operational regulations require proper vessel documentation and authorization.
Officials noted that the Access Pass system also plays a role in enhancing maritime safety and surveillance by maintaining updated vessel records and ensuring compliance with operational standards prescribed for fishing vessels.
The department appealed to the fishing community to actively participate in the campaign and complete the Access Pass process within the stipulated timeframe to avoid complications in future fishing operations.
The Directorate further stated that the special camp is being organised to ensure that no eligible fishing vessel remains outside the compliance framework due to procedural difficulties or lack of technical assistance.
Fishermen and boat owners seeking clarification regarding the process or documentation requirements have been advised to contact the in-charge of the Fish Landing Centre at Junglighat for further information.
With the Administration pushing for wider compliance under the EEZ regulatory system, the upcoming camp is expected to serve as a major facilitation exercise for the local fishing community, particularly for operators yet to complete registration and verification procedures through the ReALCraft Portal.
