Why in the News?
20,000 pompano fingerlings were released into the sea off Vizhinjam as part of an artificial reef project aimed at replenishing marine fishery resources and promoting sustainable fishing.
About the Artificial Reef Project in Kerala:
| Details | |
| Location | • Covers 42 fishing villages in Thiruvananthapuram district, from Pozhiyoor to Varkala. |
| Aims and Objectives | • Enhance fish resources along Kerala’s coast. • Support sustainable fishing and improve fishing community livelihoods. |
| Structural Mandate and Implementation | Funding:
• ₹13.02 crore project cost under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). Implementation: • Implemented by KSCADC (Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation). Future Expansion Plans: • Phase II: Proposed to cover 96 villages in Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Thrissur districts (₹29.76 crore). |
| Significance | • Boosts marine biodiversity. • Increases fish stocks and supports breeding environments. • Promotes sustainable fishing practices. • Enhances livelihoods of local communities. |
