Dialog and NARA enable fishermen locate Potential Fishing Zones via Sayuru app
Daily FT: Dialog Axiata PLC has partnered with the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) to deliver critical information on Potential Fishing Zones (PFZs) through the trilingual Sayuru mobile application. The initiative aims to enhance the safety, sustainability, and productivity of Sri Lanka’s fishing industry. The partnership was formalised through the signing of a Memorandum of Understanding by Dialog Axiata PLC Director/Group Chief Executive Supun Weerasinghe, and NARA Chairman Dr. Sanath Hettiarachchi, with the new PFZ feature officially launched at an event held on 23 May.
The Sayuru weather alert and warning service, initially launched in 2020 by Dialog in partnership with the Department of Meteorology and the Department of Fisheries and Aquatic Resources, currently serves over 110,000 day-boat fishermen across the country free of charge.
The latest version of the Sayuru app provides real-time, location-specific weather forecasts, emergency alerts, and vital maritime safety information to Sri Lankan fishermen. It also includes offline maps, a built-in digital compass, and access to Fisheries Department services. This latest collaboration marks a significant step forward in using digital innovation to support coastal fishing communities across the island.
With the new PFZ feature, fishermen now have access to accurate, real-time data on productive fishing areas, which NARA generates using satellite and oceanographic data analysis. Integrated directly into the Sayuru app, this feature helps fishermen efficiently locate the most promising tuna fishing grounds, reduce fuel usage, and improve their daily catch. As part of Dialog’s continued commitment to sustainability, the service is provided free of charge, ensuring inclusive access regardless of economic background.
“Dialog is glad to support the National Aquatic Resources Research and Development Agency (NARA) in realising its vision for the PFZ service,” said Dialog Axiata PLC Director/Group Chief Executive Supun Weerasinghe. “By leveraging our technological expertise, we aim to deliver real-time, science-based data to fishing communities, empowering them to make informed decisions and adopt more sustainable fishing practices. The integration of this service into the Sayuru app reflects our commitment to national initiatives that promote safety, efficiency, and environmental stewardship.”
“Satellite-based fishing advisories empower fishermen to locate productive zones, reduce travel time, and boost industry efficiency,” said NARA Chairman Dr. Sanath Hettiarachchi. “Since 2008, NARA has delivered tuna fishing advisories via email, radio, and social platforms. Partnering with Dialog Axiata PLC to adopt the Sayuru app now provides a user-friendly, real-time solution, enhancing access to vital data for sustainable practices and cost-effective operations.”
This collaboration underscores the shared commitment of Dialog and NARA to uplift the livelihoods of Sri Lankan fishermen while advancing environmentally responsible practices.
OSL take:
The growth and expansion in Sri Lanka’s economy that has created an expansion in business/investment opportunities covering all key economic sectors is evident by the latest app that has been developed by a local mobile service provider. The fisheries app created by Sri Lanka’s Dialog is an example of the emerging business/investment opportunities in key economic sectors. With the ongoing development and expansion in Sri Lanka’s overall economy in-line with the target of becoming a hub in the South Asian region, the need to be on par with the fast-evolving global technological advancements has become an important factor for Sri Lanka. These developments have created many business/investment opportunities for foreign businesses/investors on the lookout for lucrative ventures in the region, especially in Sri Lanka. The growth, profits and expansions of local businesses as well as foreign businesses engaged in developing and introducing global technological developments indicate the growing business potential in Sri Lanka, especially in the sector of digital platform development and ICT. Foreign businesses could also look at expanding operations through local collaborations.
| Article Code : | VBS/AT/20250606/Z_3 |