Dialog and NARA enable fishermen locate Potential Fishing Zones via Sayuru app

From left: NARA Deputy Director General – Research and Development Dr. K.H.M.L. Amaralal; Director General Dr. K. Arulananthan; Chairman Dr. Sanath Hettiarachchi; Dialog Axiata Director / Group Chief Executive Supun Weerasinghe; and Head of Sustainability and Group Chief of Risk and Compliance Asanga Priyadarshana  

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Dialog Axiata PLC, Sri Lanka’s #1 connectivity provider, 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. By equipping fishing communities with essential tools and data, the initiative contributes to sustainable resource management and the long-term preservation of Sri Lanka’s marine ecosystems.