Power to regulate, restrict or prohibit certain matters within specified area

(1) The Government may, having regard to the matters referred to in sub section (2), by order notified in the Gazette, regulate, restrict or prohibit, (a) the fishing in any specified area by such class or classes of fishing vessels as may be prescribed; or (b) the number of fishing vessels which may be used for fishing in any specified area; or (c) the catching in any specified area of such species of fish and for such period as may be specified in the notification; or (d) the use of such fishing gear in any specified area as may be prescribed. (2) In making an order under sub section (1), the Government shall have regard to the following matters, namely:- (a) the need to protect the interests of different sections of persons engaged in fishing, particularly those engaged in fishing using traditional fishing craft such as catamaran, country craft or canoe; (b) the need to conserve fish and to regulate fishing on a scientific basis; (c) the need to maintain law and order in the sea; and (d) any other matter that may be prescribed.