Cochin Fishing Harbour Modernization Project

June 14, 2023

The Cochin Fishing Harbour in Kerala is set to undergo a comprehensive modernisation project aimed at enhancing its infrastructure and boosting the fishing industry.

Estimated Cost and Funding Sources

The Cochin Fishing Harbour modernisation project is estimated to cost 169.17 crore. Funding for the project comes from two significant sources. The Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY), a scheme under the Department of Fisheries, contributes Rs 50 crore, while the Sagarmala Project scheme of the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW) provides an additional Rs 50 crore. The remaining investment of Rs 55.84 crore comes from the public-private partnership (PPP) operator.

Infrastructure Improvements

The modernisation project focuses on various infrastructure improvements. These include the construction of three air-conditioned auction halls, one non-air-conditioned hall, fish dressing units, internal roads, loading and unloading platforms, waste management areas, and other ancillary units. These enhancements aim to bring the harbour’s basic infrastructure up to international standards and maintain high hygienic standards.

Increased Capacity

One of the significant developments of the project is the construction of four temperature-controlled auction halls, measuring 60mx18m each, equipped with mechanical retrieval and conveyance systems. This upgrade is expected to increase the fishing harbour’s capacity by a remarkable 415 tonnes of fish per day. The new auction halls will significantly improve the processing and auctioning of fish, streamlining operations for the benefit of fishermen and traders alike.

Major Fish Items Landed

The Thoppumpady Harbour, where the Cochin Fishing Harbour is located, witnesses a robust fishing activity for around 10 months, with a peak season from August to November. The fishing harbour receives arrivals of a wide range of significant fish species, such as shrimps, cuttlefish, carangids, ribbon fish, seer fish, tuna, and marlins. These diverse species contribute to a daily catch averaging 250 tonnes.

Sagarmala Programme: Benefiting Fishermen

The modernisation of fishing harbours aligns with the Sagarmala Programme, initiated by the Ministry of Ports, Shipping and Waterways (MoPSW). Under this program, the MoPSW has completed fishing harbour projects worth Rs 620 crore, benefitting around 30,000 fishermen. The Cochin Fishing Harbour modernisation project is an integral part of this program, contributing to the overall development and prosperity of the fishing community.

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