Thiruvananthapuram 19-07-2011: More Central funds would be provided for the development of fishing harbours in Kerala, said CM. New dredging machines will also be bought for removing the sediments.

A meeting was convened by Oommen Chandy to discuss the developmental activities that needs to be carried out by the government in fishing harbours.

Central Ministers K.V Thomas, K.C Venugoapl, Ministers P.K.Abdu Rabb, K Babu, Shibu Baby John, A Sampath MP, Fisheries Development Board Chairman Krishnayya were also part of the meeting.

KV Thomas said that construction of 12 fishing harbours has been completed. Nine are under construction and 11 new projects are under consideration.

Projects submitted for sanction from Centre would be considered at the earliest, said, KV Thomas. 50% cost of dredging will also be met by the Central Government.

Buying a new dredging machine is included in the 100 days programme of government, said Minister K Babu.

The ratio of Centre-State funding for construction of fising harbours is 75:25. If these projects are included in the Rashtriya Krishi Vikas Yojana (RKVY) then the centre would bear 100% cost, said K.V Thomas.

Five harbours in Kerala incuding Valiyathura and Arthunkal will soon get clearance from the Centre. 

A Harbour Management Committee for each harbour will also be formed under the MLAs, said K.Babu.