Bengaluru fish prices surge 30% due to demand

Fish prices in Bengaluru have jumped by around 30%. This increase is mainly due to high demand from concerns about bird flu and the rising cost of mutton. Limited fish supply and disruptions in deliveries from coastal areas have made the situation worse. The surge in demand for fish follows a decline in chicken consumption because of health fears. Many people are turning to fish as an alternative source of protein. However, supply chains are struggling. Key seafood markets, like Russell Market, report fewer fish arrivals due to delivery issues from important coastal regions such as Mangaluru, Chennai, Kerala, and Andhra Pradesh. Fishermen say the summer heat has made fishing more difficult, leading to less fish available in the market. Traders like Lateef K from Ocean Seafoods noted that supplies of mackerel have been inconsistent, while prices for seer fish have also risen sharply. Experts warn that rising ocean temperatures are forcing fish to migrate to deeper waters. This change affects traditional fishing patterns and limits the overall amount caught. Fishermen now face a more challenging and costly fishing process. The price increase and supply challenges in Bengaluru are also affecting other coastal markets that rely on fishing for income.