Panaji, Goa: The proposed development of Keri village as part of the Integrated Modern Coastal Fishing Village component of the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) faces a setback due to pending details of land availability from the Keri panchayat.
Fisheries Minister Nilkanth Halarnkar informed the assembly that the department of fisheries has requested the Keri village panchayat to furnish details regarding land availability for the construction of necessary infrastructure. This delay has impeded progress on the ambitious plan to transform Keri into a model modern coastal fishing village, situated in the Mandrem constituency.
The project aims to provide essential facilities such as drinking water supply, sanitation, a community hall, a cyclone shelter, a fish drying unit, and a modern fish retail outlet or market. With an estimated project cost of Rs 6.1 crore, the central government has pledged to contribute 60%, amounting to Rs 450 lakh, while the state government will cover the remaining expenses.
Highlighting the timeline of the project, Harlankar stated that the government approved the development of Keri under the PMMSY in September 2021. Darashaw and Company were appointed to prepare the Detailed Project Report (DPR), which outlines key components such as the construction of an RCC floating jetty, fish gear storage and net mending shed, beautification of the fish landing centre, installation of the cage culture setup, and the construction of a community centre and Anganwadi.
However, the successful realization of this initiative hinges on the swift resolution of administrative challenges, particularly the prompt provision of land details by the Keri panchayat. The delay underscores the importance of streamlined coordination and cooperation between government departments and local authorities to ensure the timely implementation of crucial developmental projects in the fisheries sector.
