The summer months of March to May mark another peak fishing season in Mumbai, especially for catching species like shrimp and prawns. As sea temperatures rise, these crustaceans become more active, attracting fishermen to coastal waters and estuaries where they are commonly found.
Koli women purchase fresh catch from fishermen, either directly from the docks or at fish auctions, and sell it in local markets, door-to-door, or to wholesale buyers. Wholesale fish markets play a crucial role in the supply chain, connecting fishermen with retailers, restaurants, and consumers throughout Mumbai and beyond.
In addition to selling fresh fish, Koli women may engage in fish processing activities such as drying, smoking, salting, or pickling fish to extend its shelf life. Koli women exhibit resilience and entrepreneurship, engaging in diverse activities within the fishing and seafood trade sector to support themselves and their families.
From the moment they are offloaded, fish can be kept fresh with the use of ice. Ice factories, typically found near the fish market, regularly manufacture large amounts of ice for commercial use.
Some Koli fisherwomen engage in door-to-door sales, walking through neighbourhoods with baskets of fresh fish to sell to residents. This direct approach allows them to reach customers who may not be able to visit the local fish market.
The simplest method of drying is sun drying, which is suitable considering Mumbai’s hot climate. After leaving the fish in the sun for several days, the heat and airflow gradually remove moisture. Once they are sufficiently dry, the fish are collected in baskets.
Men from the Koli community typically venture out to sea in traditional fishing boats to catch fish, shrimp, crabs, and other marine species. The damaged and unsold fish are bought by Koli women to make dried fish, which is a valuable source of income for many Koli families.
Dried fish is filtered to separate waste, which is collected and sold. Fish waste is composted into khad (organic fertilizer) for use in agriculture and horticulture. Fish-based fertilizers are rich in nutrients such as nitrogen, phosphorus, and potassium, which promote plant growth and improve soil fertility.
Repurposing fish waste into valuable products and resources has not only minimized waste generation, reduced environmental pollution, and created economic opportunities—particularly for Koli women—but it has also contributed to a more sustainable and circular economy.