Kerala Government Greenlights Rs 1 Crore Fish Landing Centre in Ernakulam
The Kerala state government has given administrative approval for a Rs 1 crore project to build a modern fish landing centre in Ernakulam. This centre will be located near the fisheries school on Pandit Karuppan Road. The move aims to tackle long-standing problems that have hampered fishing activities in the area.
Addressing Silt Accumulation in Vembanad Lake
For years, silt accumulation in Vembanad Lake has created obstacles for boat landings and fishing operations. A bund-like formation emerged in Thevara due to this silt deposit. This situation severely affected fishing in Vembanad Lake, leading to a noticeable shortage in aquatic catches. The new project directly addresses these issues by planning necessary interventions.
Project Components and Expected Benefits
As part of this initiative, authorities will construct a landing berth specifically for fishing boats. Dredging work will also be carried out in the nearby area to remove accumulated silt. Ernakulam MLA T J Vinod highlighted the project's importance. He stated that completing this project should bring great improvement in several areas.
Key expected benefits include:
- Safer landing conditions for fishing boats
- Enhanced fish marketing opportunities
- Creation of new employment opportunities for the local fisher community
Overcoming Project Delays and Technical Hurdles
The project, known as the Thevara fish landing centre, was initially included in the 2025-26 state budget. However, it faced significant delays during implementation. In the first phase, the government appointed the fisheries department as the implementing agency. Technical limitations and operational inefficiencies within that department slowed progress considerably.
MLA T J Vinod took note of this challenging situation. He wrote to the government requesting a change in project oversight. His recommendation was to hand over the project to the irrigation department, which possesses greater technical expertise in such infrastructure works. The government accepted this suggestion, paving the way for the final administrative approval that has now been issued.
Logistical Considerations and Future Steps
According to the government order, officials must find a suitable place to deposit the dredged soil in advance. This logistical requirement is crucial for the smooth execution of the desilting work. With all approvals in place, the project is now set to move forward. The local fishing community eagerly anticipates its completion, hoping it will revitalize their livelihoods and the regional fishing economy.
