Artificial reefs launched off Pudukkottai coast

Collector M. Aruna on Saturday inaugurated the installation of artificial reefs in the sea off the Kottaipattinam coast in Pudukkottai district.

The project is being implemented by the Fisheries and Fishermen Welfare Department with the objective of enhancing marine resources and improving the livelihoods of fishermen.

Addressing the gathering, Ms. Aruna said the State government was implementing a range of schemes to safeguard fishermen’s welfare at a time when declining fish stocks had begun to affect daily catches and incomes. As part of efforts to augment marine resources and promote sustainable fisheries management, the government had taken up the installation of artificial reefs in coastal waters. Under the Centre–State shared Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, artificial reefs were being set up in sea areas adjoining eight fishing villages in Pudukkottai district.

The Tamil Nadu government had allocated ₹9.92 crore for the project. A total of 5,760 artificial reef units had been fabricated in three different designs — 3,360 triangular units, 1,600 ring-shaped well units and 800 cluster-type units. On Friday, the installation of around 900 reef units was undertaken in Kottaipattinam sea area.

The artificial reefs would function as breeding grounds, shelters and safe habitats for fish and fish juveniles. They would also help increase the population of other marine organisms. It would contribute to biodiversity conservation and sustainable fisheries. Improved fish availability was expected to result in higher catch volumes and better incomes for fishermen, Ms. Aruna said.

The event was attended by senior fisheries officials, representatives of fishermen’s associations, fishermen and other government officials.