Centre Approves ₹177-Crore Project for Muthalapozhi Fishing Port Development

by Fishery News

Thiruvananthapuram: The Union Minister of State for Fisheries, George Kurian, announced today that the Central Government has sanctioned the development of the Muthalapozhi Fishing Port near Thiruvananthapuram. Addressing a press conference in the city, Kurian confirmed that the project would be executed based on a new Detailed Project Report (DPR) submitted by the Kerala State Government.

The total project cost of ₹177 crore will be shared between the Central and State Governments in a 60:40 ratio. Of this, the Union Government will contribute ₹106.2 crore under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), while the Kerala Government will provide the remaining ₹70.8 crore.

Muthalapozhi has gained notoriety in recent years as a perilous area for fishermen, with several fatalities resulting from frequent accidents in the region. Fishermen and local communities have long demanded better infrastructure at the harbor to address these safety concerns. The newly announced development project aims to improve safety, modernize facilities, and boost economic activities in the area.

The port expansion is based on scientific research conducted by institutions like the Central Water and Power Research Station, Pune, and the Environmental Impact Assessment led by the Kerala Government.

The upgraded harbor will accommodate 415 mechanized fishing boats and is expected to handle an annual fish landing of 38,142 metric tonnes. Direct benefits from the project will impact about 10,000 people, with an equal number gaining indirect advantages. In addition to supporting local fishing vessels, the improved port will stimulate the growth of fisheries-based industries, enhance trade activities, and generate substantial employment opportunities.

Minister Kurian highlighted the significant progress achieved in India’s fisheries sector since Prime Minister Narendra Modi took office in 2014. “Over the past decade, ₹38,572 crore has been allocated to various fisheries-related projects, boosting employment and development opportunities across the country,” he noted.

 

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