State plans four new fishing harbours in Guntur

Guntur: The state government is considering to construct four fishing harbours at a cost of Rs 600 crore to provide better facilities for fishermen. According to official sources, the four fishing harbours will come up at Nizampatam in Guntur district, Machilipatnam in Krishna district, Chirala in Prakasam district and Uppada in East Godavari district.

The fisheries department will take up the construction of fishing harbours with the financial assistance of National Fisheries Development Board. The department officials held negotiations with NFDB officials and explained their proposals.

The Central government is also in favour of extending necessary assistance and cooperation for the construction of fishing harbours. If this proposal translates into action, fishermen will get better infrastructure for parking facility for boats. Facilities will be provided for preserving fish which would ensure better price for the catch.

Currently, AP tops in marine exports in the country, accounting for 47 per cent of fish exports. The Centre wants to increase the share of the state to 70 per cent. The Central government is planning to increase quality sea food exports from AP to meet the demand in the international market.