The long-awaited upgrade of the Kasimedu Fishing Harbour is poised to begin within the next three months. The Central government has granted ₹98 crore for the ambitious project, comprising 25 distinct works, with an estimated total cost of ₹127 crore. The Fishing Harbour Management Committee (FHMC) will cover the remaining expenses.
The extensive upgrade plan, scheduled to conclude by June 2025, is divided into six packages, with the first package expected to commence in January. The Kasimedu Fishing Harbour, one of Tamil Nadu’s key fishing hubs and a major export-oriented fish processing site, spans 96 acres and serves approximately 750 mechanized boats from villages in Chennai, Tiruvallur, and Chengalpattu.
The modernization initiative aims to elevate the fishing harbor to international standards. Key components of the project include the construction of additional fish landing wharves, a mechanized fish-handling complex, a ship-lift boat repair facility, a cleaning, packaging, and cold storage area, a sanitary complex, and improvements to essential amenities like drinking water supply and waste management.
Stakeholders in the fishing industry express optimism about the project’s potential impact. Nanjil Ravi, a local business owner, emphasized the need for facilities such as boat repair services, spare parts shops, and enhanced fish processing areas to elevate the quality of fish landing. The upgrade is anticipated to streamline export processes, addressing current limitations that often necessitate sending fish to Kerala for subsequent export.
M.D. Dayalan, a leader within the fishing community, welcomed the initiative while also highlighting the importance of establishing a dedicated bank for fishermen or an improved loan system. He noted that such financial support would empower more fishing boats to embark on voyages, ultimately contributing to increased yields of export-quality fish. Presently, only around 60% of fishing boats depart from the harbor for fishing expeditions.
Source: The Hindu
