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Sand Accretion Strands Boats, Fishermen Protest
19 Jan
Summary
- Fishermen demand long-term solution for sand accretion issue.
- Around 15 fibre boats damaged due to difficulty docking.
- Government proposal for dredging costs an estimated ₹2.4 crore.
Coastal sand accretion is severely impacting fishermen in Veerapandiyapattinam, a village near Tiruchendur. The village's shoreline has experienced significant sand buildup, hindering the docking of around 100 fibre boats owned by residents. This has resulted in damage to at least 15 boats and their engines since last December.
Temporary measures, such as using an earth mover and tractors for sand removal at a considerable daily cost, have proven ineffective. Fishermen have been unable to go to sea for over 15 days and have organized protests to urge authorities for a sustainable solution to the worsening situation.
A proposal amounting to ₹2.4 crore has been submitted to the government for comprehensive dredging of the affected area. Further actions will proceed once the project receives necessary approval, aiming to resolve the persistent sand accretion problem.
