Ja-kotu

Ja-kotu, also known as "Swaraya," is a traditional fishing method practiced for centuries in Sri Lanka's coastal regions. This technique involves constructing traps from interwoven bamboo panels, creating multiple interconnected catching chambers. Each chamber is designed with non-return devices, allowing fish and prawns to enter but preventing their escape. 

Traditionally, fishermen used kerosene lanterns to attract prawns into these traps during nighttime. A typical Ja-kotu setup would utilize seven kerosene lamps, consuming between 3.0 and 3.5 liters of kerosene per night. This practice not only incurred significant costs for fishermen but also contributed to environmental pollution due to carbon dioxide emissions from burning kerosene. 

In recent years, initiatives have been introduced to replace kerosene lamps with solar-powered LED lighting systems. This transition aims to reduce operational costs for fishermen and minimize environmental impact. Each modified Ja-kotu is equipped with six LED lights powered by a 12V sealed lead battery, providing an efficient and sustainable alternative to traditional lighting methods. 

The Ja-kotu fishing method is deeply rooted in Sri Lankan fishing communities, with ownership and techniques often passed down through generations. Studies indicate that a significant number of Ja-kotu fishers are over 40 years old, with many having more than two decades of experience in this practice. In regions like the Jaffna lagoon, approximately 98% of fishers have inherited their Ja-kotu operations from previous generations, highlighting the cultural significance and enduring legacy of this fishing method. 

The Ja-kotu system exemplifies the blend of traditional knowledge and modern innovation in Sri Lanka's fishing industry, reflecting a commitment to sustainable practices and the preservation of cultural heritage.