The fishing industry in India has been an integral part of the country’s economy for a long time. The Pazhayar Fishing Harbour, situated in the Mayiladuthurai district of Tamil Nadu, is one such hub for the fishing industry, providing livelihoods to many people in the region. With the government’s Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY) aimed at promoting sustainable fishing practices and improving the livelihoods of the fishing community, Pazhayar Fishing Harbour is set to receive a boost in infrastructure. The proposed developments are expected to enhance the fishing industry’s operations, making it more efficient and profitable, ultimately contributing to the region’s growth. This article explores the PMMSY initiatives at Pazhayar Fishing Harbour and their potential impact on the fishing community and the district’s economy.
The Pazhayar Fishing Harbour in Mayiladuthurai district is set to receive significant infrastructure upgrades under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), with the state government recently giving administrative approval for the works to commence. A fishing harbour typically provides a safe anchorage for fishing vessels while also managing fish landing, handling, processing, and marketing activities, as well as facilitating communication between buyers, sellers, and service providers. The Pazhayar fishing harbour is one of four medium-sized fishing harbours in the state, located at the northernmost limit of the Mayiladuthurai district where the Kollidam and Pazhayar rivers meet the Bay of Bengal. It is one of the major estuaries, with a strategic position close to the mangrove forest habitat.
According to official sources, the government has approved 26.26 crore under PMMSY to develop the infrastructure of this fishing harbour. The preliminary work is currently underway for a 180-meter long Reinforced Cement Concrete (RCC) diaphragm wall, a 30-tonne capacity ice plant for cold storage facilities, and an 80-meter retaining wall. However, some protestors have emphasised the need to improve other amenities at the fishing port. For example, J. Deepak Vasanth, an activist, has highlighted the congested approach route to Pazhayar, which needs expanding due to the large-scale movement of automobiles. Sewage water clogs the road, creating an unsanitary and unpleasant environment. Therefore, protestors have called for adequate parking facilities for trucks arriving to load the catches, and other facilities to be constructed to reduce congestion and improve the quality of the environment.
While Pazhayar fishing harbour is receiving a significant boost in infrastructure development under PMMSY, construction of another fishing harbour in Tharangambadi is underway at a cost of Rs. 120 crore through the Fisheries and Aquaculture Infrastructure Development Fund (FIDF). The port is nearing completion, and breakwater structures measuring 340 metres long on the northern side and 1,070 metres long on the southern side will be built at the harbour, according to an official.
Fishing harbours play a significant role in generating income and creating employment. The upgrade of Pazhayar fishing harbour and the construction of another in Tharangambadi will likely contribute to the state’s economic growth and development by providing better fishing infrastructure and amenities, attracting more business, and ultimately boosting the livelihoods of fishing communities. The government has provided substantial funding for fishing harbour development under PMMSY and FIDF, reflecting its commitment to the industry’s sustainability and growth. Coastal states like Tamil Nadu must continue to invest in fishing infrastructure to harness the potential of the industry fully.
