Fisheries sector in Puducherry to get major infrastructure boost with projects worth ₹246 crore

Puducherry's fisheries sector receives ₹246 crore for infrastructure upgrades, enhancing livelihoods and modernizing fishing harbours and facilities.

The fisheries sector in the Union Territory is set for a major infrastructure boost, with the Centre approving project proposals to the tune of ₹246 crore, targeting the modernisation of harbours and aimed at improving the livelihood of coastal fishing communities.

Official sources said the existing fishing harbour at Thengaithittu will be upgraded at an estimated cost of ₹15.63 crore. The project includes the construction of modern facilities such as an auction hall, net mending shed, fishermen rest shed, boat repair facility, and public amenities along with improvements to existing infrastructure.

The upgraded harbour will directly benefit the local fishing community by improving working conditions and providing better infrastructure for landing and selling fresh and hygienic seafood, thereby creating additional livelihood opportunities.

In addition, to address space constraints at the Thengaithittu fishing harbour, the Puducherry Government has proposed the construction and expansion of the fishing harbour at Periyaveerampattinam (Arikamedu) at an estimated cost of ₹53.38 crore.

“The project will provide improved berthing facilities, dredging, retaining walls, and operational infrastructure to accommodate both mechanized and motorized boats. This will significantly benefit the local fishing community by reducing congestion at Thengaithittu and providing safer and more efficient landing space for around 300 fishing crafts,” an official said.

New fish landing centres have also been proposed at Nallavadu (South) and Periyakalapet with investments of ₹18.93 crore and ₹20.14 crore respectively. These facilities will include fish auction halls, net mending sheds, workshops, canteens, and internal roads. The Nallavadu centre alone is expected to benefit around 550 motorized and non-motorized fishing craft owners, crew members, fish vendors, and related workers.