Spatial Study of Trawler Fishing Vessel of Gujarat, India : A case of Dholai, Veraval, Okha Port

Abstract

A fishing vessel is a working platform from which fishermen launch their fishing gear, conduct their fishing operations, and return with their catch. Basically fishing vessel classified according to fishing gear and structural characteristics of the vessel. Trawling is a method of fishing and the vessel which use trawl method for fishing is called trawler fishing vessel. Trawler fishing vessel has deck floor, cold storage, machine room, kitchen, toilet, storage for equipments, cabin and water-diesel tank. In Gujarat, trawler fishing vessel mostly use for fishing. Three different regions of coastal area of Gujarat is selected for study of trawler vessel. Veraval is main hub for fishing production and export. Dholai is recently developed port in South Gujarat. Okha port is historical port and has Indian Navy center in gulf of Kachchh. For many villages, the principal source of income comes from fishing. A number of fishing vessels are produced annually. Fishing fleets play a significant part in the local economies of coastal areas in many nations and provide food for billions of people worldwide. Fishing vessel should be studied from an architectural perspective. This research will serve to fill the gap between architectural studies and maritime studies. This thesis contributes in adding knowledge in maritime architecture and spatial studies. Trawler fishing vessels in the ports of Dholai, Veraval and Okha change their spatial qualities according to their functionality. This one will help to enhance the design of vessel, to regulate the fishing activities, to make policies in fishing sector to engage fishing communities and to promote sustainable fishing practices. For this research, the qualitative method is used in terms of documentation, surveys, interviews, photographs and observations. This study will help to increase the knowledge in the field of naval architecture and fisheries department from the inferences of the research. This research will be useful for designer to design the vessels, researchers, fishing communities, academics, policymakers and planners for fishing guidelines by referring spatial study of trawler fishing vessel.Keywords: Trawler fishing vessel, Trawl feet, Fishery vessel, Spatial study