Chennai’s Kasimedu and Chintadripet fish markets recorded a wide variety of arrivals and moderate prices as the northeast monsoon began, but traders warned that rain and rough seas could reduce supplies if fishing boats remain ashore in the coming days.
Fish buyers made a beeline for Kasimedu on Sunday, the first weekend after the end of Purattasi, as boats brought in sizeable quantities of fresh catch. Seer fish, one of the most sought-after varieties, sold for ₹1,000 per kg in the retail market, below its usual price of ₹1,500, according to boat owner V Balaji.
The market also received vanjiram, vaaval, big sankara, kodukkai, kalavan, squid and crab. Trader K B Thirumal said the variety of fish available at Kasimedu reflected the reasonable landings brought in by boats during the weekend.
At Chintadripet fish market, several varieties were available at moderate prices, but the number of buyers was lower. Vendor Babu said footfall was expected to decline further on Monday because of Ayudha Puja, when non-vegetarian food is traditionally avoided by many households on an auspicious day.
Deep-sea fishing boat owners’ association secretary B Muthukumar said vessels had brought in reasonable quantities of export-quality fish. Ribbon fish was priced at ₹250 per kg, while leather jacket sold for ₹100 per kg. He said the amount of fish landing at Kasimedu was expected to increase over the next few days.
The immediate supply outlook, however, depends on weather conditions. Fish vendor Balaraman said the India Meteorological Department had warned of heavy rain in northern Tamil Nadu with the onset of the northeast monsoon. Fewer boats could be sent to sea if the warning translates into rough conditions, potentially reducing the catch reaching Chennai’s markets.
The situation highlights the direct link between coastal weather and the city’s everyday food supply. Market prices and availability can change quickly when fishing trips are postponed, while reduced footfall on festival days can affect vendors and traders at the same time. In the current cycle, Kasimedu has seen strong arrivals, but the continuation of that supply remains dependent on whether boats can safely operate.
Traders and boat owners said they would closely monitor the IMD’s forecasts through the week before committing to further fishing trips. The expected rise in landings over the next few days will therefore be balanced against decisions on how many vessels can go to sea safely.
