Restoring Livelihoods for Inland Fishing Families in Paddalipuram Through Nets and Canoes

Rebuilding income and dignity through sustainable fishing support

Inland fishing plays a vital role in sustaining rural families in the Muthur Division of the Trincomalee District. For generations, the Ilankantha Tank has supported seasonal fishing, providing both food security and a critical source of income for local communities. However, despite a healthy fish population, many fishing families have been unable to benefit fully due to a lack of proper equipment and safe access to the tank.

To address this gap, Vanni Hope implemented a targeted livelihood support initiative focused on restoring and strengthening inland fishing activities at Ilankantha Tank. This project was kindly sponsored by Emergency Medicine Symposium – Australia and forms part of our broader commitment to long-term, sustainable recovery following Cyclone Ditwah.

Supporting Inland Fishing Families at Ilankantha Tank

This project directly supported 45 inland fishing families affiliated with the Omega Inland Fisheries Society in the Muthur Division. While fish stocks had already been strengthened through earlier fingerling releases, harvesting remained difficult and physically demanding due to inadequate gear.

Our team worked closely with the fishing society and community leaders to identify the most pressing needs during the harvesting phase and ensure the support provided would have a meaningful and lasting impact.

What Was Provided Through This Project

As part of this livelihood restoration initiative, the following items were provided to the fishing community:

• 20 high-quality fishing nets (3-ply, 60 x 1500)
• 20 additional fishing nets (3-ply, larger mesh size)
• 5 durable fibreglass canoes, designed to improve safety and mobility on the tank

These items were distributed through a community-based process, with guidance provided on safe use, maintenance, and shared responsibility to ensure long-term benefit.

Strengthening Livelihoods and Economic Resilience

The provision of fishing nets and canoes has significantly improved the ability of fishermen to harvest fish efficiently and safely. With appropriate equipment now in place, families are better positioned to increase their catch, stabilise household income, and contribute to the local food supply.

Importantly, this project supports sustainable inland fishing practices by encouraging shared use of resources, safer operations on the water, and stronger community collaboration.

Looking Ahead

This initiative represents an important step in restoring livelihoods and economic resilience for inland fishing families in Trincomalee. By addressing practical gaps at the right moment, we are helping ensure that earlier investments in fish stocking translate into real, lasting outcomes for families.

We extend our sincere thanks to Emergency Medicine Symposium – Australia for sponsoring this project and making this livelihood support possible. Partnerships like this allow us to move beyond immediate relief and invest in dignified, long-term recovery for communities across Sri Lanka.

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