Fishermen 'tempted' go out to sea

Ras Al Khaimah: Fishermen here are still banned from going to sea, and the fish market continues to suffer from a shortage of fresh fish.

Sources at the Municipality, Higher Fishing Committee and Fisheries Department said the ban on fishing trips will remain until the weather at sea is judged to be safe.

The Meteorological Department at the International Airport announced that the wind speed is decreasing rapidly. Sources at the department said there was no possibility of rain and that the sea is calming down.

People have been going to the sea to watch the waves, however Coastguard patrols called back three fishing boats that went out to sea yesterday.

Taking risks

Sources said the fishing boats were found at sea before they dropped their nets and were forced to return to port.

Sources said that those fishermen took the risk to go out to sea, tempted by the money they expect to make from selling fresh fish in the market.

Fishermen have been keeping in direct contact with the concerned authorities to check whether the ban has been lifted.

Sources said the fishermen appreciate the care they have received from authorities, but they believe the ban has had a severe financial impact.

Elderly fishermen in Ras Al Khaimah said it was not the first time they encountered a cyclone and that it had happened in the past.

Saleh Hanbalou, an Emirati fisherman said the UAE had strong winds and heavy rain about four decades ago.

He added that the fishermen had to avoid the sea for a couple of weeks until the winds calmed down and the rain stopped.

The fishermen believe that the UAE authorities should allow them to resume their usual fishing trips today.

Meanwhile, the authorities are still on alert and the police patrols have been scanning the sea to ensure complete safety and security.

A senior police officer said the ban will remain in place until an official notice is issued from concerned authorities.

Police helicopters have also been monitoring mountainous areas and locals have been instructed not to climb to the top.