Daijiworld Media Network – Mangaluru (MS)

Mangaluru, Dec 12: Construction work on the third phase of the fishing jetty of the important ports of the coastal region in the city is yet to begin due to technical reasons.

The union government had approved the project of Rs 57.60 crore on September 20, 2010. It was decided that the union government will provide 75% of the funds and rest will be borne by the state government.

In 2011-12, the contract was given to be completed within six months. During the work, according to the local fishermen’s demand it was decided to raise the height of jetty from 2.5 to 3 meters.

Accordingly, a revised estimate was made for Rs 98.25 crore. Later including the revised estimate and several other reasons the project did not get completed. In addition, as some people have raised a objection at National Green Tribunal of Delhi, the project is in limbo.

Technical issues are there for concretisation of Hoigebazaar Bhagat Singh Road that goes by the side of proposed jetty, compound wall, floor concrete and concrete drainage, well-equipeed auction centre, electricity, drinking water, toilets and dredging work. There are more than 1500 boats that make use of fishing port. In one line a maximum of 350 boats can be anchored in correct manner. Making room for rest of 1150 boats is a big issue.

Cabinet has approved an additional Rs 22 crore for the project. But the issue of land is still languishing in the court. Due to technical issues also the work has not yet begun.

There is also issue of the land on which the third jetty will be built. It is not clear whether the property belongs to port department or fisheries department. So the district administration decided to mark the border and then start the expansion work.