What is the Artificial Reef Project implemented in Kerala?

GS3 · GS3-18.Conservation, Environmental Pollution and Degradation, Environmental Impact Assessment.

14 Nov 2024

Prelims Only

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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). • ₹302 crore allocated for sustainable fisheries in Kerala. Implementation: • Implemented by KSCADC (Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation). • Technical support from CMFRI (Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute). Future Expansion Plans: • Phase II: Proposed to cover 96 villages in Kollam, Alappuzha, Ernakulam, and Thrissur districts (₹29.76 crore). • Phase III: Proposed to cover 96 villages in northern districts (₹25.82 crore).
Significance	• Boosts marine biodiversity. • Increases fish stocks and supports breeding environments. • Promotes sustainable fishing practices. • Enhances livelihoods of local communities.