19-05-2025
Atchannaidu launches artificial reefs to boost fish production
Minister for Agriculture, Marketing and Fisheries K. Atchannaidu on Monday (May 19) flagged off the sinking of 'artificial reefs' to the seabed near Jalari Yendada in the city.
Speaking on the occasion, he said these reefs would contribute to the growth of fish stock apart from promoting marine biodiversity, thereby improving the livelihood of fisherfolk. A total of 22 units of artificial reefs were being installed in North Andhra in the first phase. They would be placed off the coast of other districts in the State in a phases.
He explained that 634 transponders were fixed on mechanised boats operating from the Visakhapatnam Fishing Harbour, with 100% subsidy, under the Pradhan Manthri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY). The transponders would help in tracking the location of mechanised boats at sea, and would be useful to the fisherfolk during cyclones and other natural calamities.
Measures would be taken to provide GPS, echosounder, boat engines, nets and ropes on subsidy to fisherfolk in the future. Steps would also be taken to clear pending diesel oil subsidy and ex gratia payments. Representatives of mechanised boat associations brought their problems to the notice of the Minister.
Later, Mr. Atchannaidu went on a boat to see the seaweed culture and cage culture units set up under PMMSY near RK Beach.
Special Chief Secretary B. Rajasekhar, Fisheries Commissioner Rama Sankar Naik, Joint Director of Fisheries, Visakhapatnam, P. Lakshmana Rao, head of Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI) Regional Centre Joe K. Kizhakudan, fishermen association leaders P.C. Appa Rao, M. Lakshmana Rao, Narasinga Rao, Balaji and Ch. Veeranna were among those who were present.
