In a major step towards addressing the challenges faced by fishermen in Puducherry, Public Works Minister Lakshmi Narayanan has announced the launch of a 310-crore rupee project to prevent sea erosion.

The initiative involves laying boulders along a 28-kilometer stretch of the coastline, benefiting 18 fishing villages in the region.

The minister made the announcement while inspecting fishing villages such as Pillai Chavadi, Chinna Kalapet, Periya Kalapet, and Kanakachettikulam. The Minister informed that as part of the first phase 24 crore rupees have been allocated for laying boulders in the four inspected villages.

Ongoing rainfall at Puducherry due to depression in Bay of Bengal has worsened sea erosion in several villages, putting fishermen’s boats at risk of being swept away due to rough seas and lack of secure parking facilities.

During the inspection, fishermen highlighted the urgent need for safe storage of their boats and nets. In response, the minister assured immediate action and announced that the Fisheries Department would bear all costs related to protecting boats and ensuring uninterrupted fishing activities.