Samagi Jana Balawegaya Member of Parliament, Chithral Fernando has asked the Indian High Commissioner to Sri Lanka, Santosh Jha, to provide technology from the Indian Space Research Organisation (ISRO) to help prevent Sri Lankan fishermen from losing their lives while at sea.

The request, made during a meeting yesterday (06), centres on deploying advanced satellite systems to improve safety for those working in high-seas fishing areas.

The MP stated on social media that his understanding of the available technology was developed during a visit to ISRO in Bangalore last June, which was part of a delegation of young political leaders.

Fernando learned about the DAT-SG (Distress Alert Transmitter – Second Generation) system, which uses satellite communication to successfully prevent disasters faced by fishermen in Indian waters.

Following his research, the parliamentarian met with High Commissioner Santosh Jha, requesting that India facilitate the provision of this technology to Sri Lanka's fishing community.

He proposed beginning with pilot testing along the coastal areas of the Puttalam District.

In addition to the distress alert system, Fernando also asked the Indian High Commissioner to supply the Indian NAVIC technology software.

This software is designed to assist and enhance the efficiency of fishing activities for the local community.