04-07-2025
Fishermen reiterate opposition to deep-sea hydrocarbon project at grievance meeting
The monthly grievances redress meeting for fishermen, held at the Collectorate on Friday, once again witnessed strong opposition to the proposed hydrocarbon project off the Kanniyakumari coast.
During the meeting, the fishermen expressed their condemnation for the deep sea project. They said that bids had already been invited for the project, without conducting any public hearing regarding its implementation. They pointed out that the project envisages exploration at three sites along the Kanniyakumari coast, which would affect the coral reefs and livelihood of the local fishing community.
Kanniyakumari District Collector R. Alagumeena, who chaired the meeting said that the district administration has not received any official information regarding the proposed project.
At the meeting various petitions were submitted by fishermen. These included the distribution of kerosene at subsidised rate and calls to verify the authenticity of boats currently availing subsidy. Additional petitions were raised seeking the construction of new groyne at Rajakamangalam Thurai, Arockiapuram, Kovalam, Manakudi, Keezha Manakudi and Periyakadu. Many petitions were also submitted regarding the pattas for tsunami houses, extension of bus service to coastal villages and construction of new roads in coastal areas.
They also urged the district administration to ensure compensation for the fishermen affected by sunken cargo vessel MSC Elsa 3 and to provide details of the container locations to ensure the safety at sea.
In response Ms. Alagumeena said that annual inspections are being carried out and only eligible boats are provided kerosene at subsidised rates. She also informed that DPR has been prepared for the construction of new groynes at the coastal villages including Periyakadu and Keezhamanakudi. Regarding the sunken vessel, she stated that fishermen would be alerted with the locations of the container to ensure their safety.
Padmanabhapuram Sub Collector Vinay Kumar Meena, Deputy Director of Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare Chinnakuppan and other officials were present at the meeting.
