Chinese fishing nets in Cochin are locally known as Cheenavala. In Cochin, the Chinese nets are suspended in the mid air all along the coast. The nets are set up on bamboo or teak poles and are basically fixed land installations. These nets are horizontally suspended over the sea, giving an appearance of huge hammock. For balance, these nets are counter balanced by stones tied to ropes. Each net spreads over an area of about 20 meters.
The technique of fishing by Chinese fishing nets differs from the technique of ordinary fishing nets. While fishing by Chinese fishing nets, the nets are submerged into the sea, kept for a few minutes and raised delicately at a time by six fishermen. All of these six fishermen must maintain the balance while picking the net out of water.
The Chinese fishing nets in Cochin Harbor has multiple usage. They do form the main fishing accessory in Cochin, but besides this, they also form a major tourist attraction in Cochin. The water body covered with Chinese fishing net at sunset makes a soothing scene to the tourists. From Vypeen to Fort Kochi, the entire stretch is covered with Chinese fishing nets.
Last Updated on : 30/08/2013
