Union Minister of State for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry and Dairying, George Kurian, announced that fishermen shall no longer fear accidents in Muthalappozhi, as construction has commenced on a state-of-the-art fishing harbor equipped with modern safety and operational facilities. He was addressing the gathering as the special guest at the official inauguration ceremony of the construction work of Muthalappozhi Fishing Harbor project.Kurian highlighted that the harbor is being developed as a blue-green fishing harbor, aligning with sustainable and eco-friendly principles. The project, with a total outlay of ₹177 crore, includes a central contribution of ₹106 crore and has been sanctioned under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).The Minister added that harbor development projects are also underway in Kasaragod, Puthiyappa, Ponnani, Koyilandy, and Arthungal. Furthermore, the central government is supporting the development of nine integrated modern fishing villages across Kerala, contributing 60 percent of the project costs.
In a major boost to infrastructure, a modern fish market is being established in Aluva at a cost of ₹50 crore. It will feature advanced facilities for cleaning, processing, and marketing fish, along with provisions for online purchase.
The Union Minister also elaborated on a new initiative in collaboration with ISRO to provide fishermen venturing into the sea with free transponders, enabling real-time communication with their families and relevant authorities, thereby enhancing safety.
Kerala Chief Minister Shri Pinarayi Vijayan inaugurated the construction work virtually and commended Union Minister George Kurien for his proactive efforts in securing central approval and funding for the project.
The event was presided over by Shri Saji Cherian, State Minister for Fisheries, Culture, and Youth Affairs. Shri V. Sivankutty, State Minister for Education and Labour, was the chief guest. Other dignitaries present included Shri V. Sasi, MLA, Chirayinkeezhu, Shri B. Abdul Nasser, Special Secretary, Fisheries Department and Fr. Lucian Thomas of the Archdiocese of Thiruvananthapuram.
