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Tharuvaikulam Fishermen Demand New Jetty, Subsidy Revival Ahead of TN Polls

Fishermen in Tharuvaikulam, a major tuna export hub, are raising critical infrastructure and policy issues ahead of the Tamil Nadu assembly polls. They are requesting the construction of a second T-jetty to accommodate the village's 300 mechanized boats, as the current facility is insufficient. Key demands also include reviving a discontinued boat subsidy scheme and expanding a narrow hook-and-line fishing curve. Authorities note the harbor's significant economic turnover, driven by tuna exports, while locals acknowledge improved coastal security.

Key Points: Tharuvaikulam Fishermen Seek Infrastructure, Subsidy Ahead of Polls

  • Demand for a second T-jetty
  • Request to revive boat subsidy scheme
  • Call to expand hook-and-line fishing curve
  • High-value tuna exports drive local economy
3 min read

From exports to challenges, Tuna Hub Tharuvaikulam seeks boost as fishermen flag key issues

Fishermen in Tharuvaikulam highlight key issues: need for a new T-jetty, subsidy revival, and harbor expansion for the thriving tuna export hub.

"The government should take steps to construct another T-jetty similar to the existing one. - Arulraj, Fisherman"

By Niranjan Mishra, Thoothukudi, March 26

Ahead of the Tamil Nadu assembly Polls, Tharuvaikulam fishermen have raised concerns about several challenges they face while working in the harbour.

Around 250 big boats operate here, engaged in deep-sea fishing. Most of the fish caught from this harbour are exported abroad.

Speaking to ANI, Arulraj, a local fisherman, said, "There are around 10,000 families living in our village, the majority of whom belong to the fishing community. Most people here are engaged in fish processing activities. Additionally, there are about 300 mechanised fishing boats in our village. However, there is only one T-jetty that can accommodate around 250 boats."

Requesting the government and authorities to build another T-Jetty, Arulraj said, "The government should take steps to construct another T-jetty similar to the existing one."

Another fisherman, Anthony Panneerdas, advocated for the hook-and-line fishing curve. He said, "Work is currently underway to construct a hook-and-line fishing curve. But the area allocated for this is very narrow. Therefore, both the Central and State Governments should jointly take steps to expand and develop this facility."

Panneerdas also demanded that the subsidy scheme, which was discounted, be reinstated.

He said, "Earlier, both the Central and State Governments jointly provided boats at subsidised rates. Under this scheme, for an investment of 70 lakh, a subsidy of 30 lakh was provided. However, this subsidy scheme was discontinued three years ago. We are requesting to reinstate the subsidy scheme. If this is provided, it would be highly beneficial for us."

Another local Sarpanch, Amburaj, also spoke to ANI and thanked the Central Government and the Indian Navy for ensuring safety and security in this coastal region. "We have witnessed significant infrastructure improvements, including new flyovers, along with the steadfast support of the Navy, which acts as a guardian for our fishing community," he said.

Vinod Ravindran, State Coordinator of the Marine Products Export Development Authority, told ANI, "The Tharuvaikulam harbour's daily turnover ranges from 1 crore to 1.5 crore, and on a good day, it can go up to Rs 3 crore. Most of the fish is exported. We also provide training to fishermen on maintaining fish quality as well as hygienic practices."

"Tharuvaikulam harbour is known for its tuna catch, which is economically valuable. Using mechanised boats, fishermen venture into the Bay of Bengal for about 15 to 30 days, catching around 10 to 12 tonnes of tuna worth approximately 7 to 10 lakh. Larger boats can catch tuna valued at up to 20 lakh," he added.

- ANI

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Reader Comments

P
Priya S
Good to see infrastructure like flyovers being mentioned, but basic facilities like jetties are lacking. 250 boats sharing one T-jetty? That's a major bottleneck. Hope the authorities act before the elections and not just make empty promises.
A
Anthony S
The hook-and-line method is more sustainable! Glad it's being discussed. Overfishing with large nets can damage marine life. Expanding this facility is a smart move for long-term fish stocks. Central and state govt should cooperate on this.
M
Meera T
Training on hygiene and quality is so important for exports. We compete in the global market. If the fishermen get the right support with infrastructure and subsidies, India can become a top seafood exporter. Full support to the Tharuvaikulam community!
V
Vikram M
Safety and security by the Navy is a big relief for fishermen, especially near maritime borders. But safety at sea also means having proper harbor facilities to return to. The jetty issue needs fixing on a war footing.
S
Sarah B
Interesting read. The economic figures are impressive. A 70 lakh investment with a 30 lakh subsidy seems like a very effective public-private partnership model. Discontinuing it for 3 years is hard to understand from a policy perspective.
K
Karthik V

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