Chennai, Jul 11 (IANS): The fishermen associations in Tamil Nadu have lodged a strong protest against a proposed new harbour in the coastal town of Pulicat, saying the decision was taken unilaterally.

While speaking to IANS, K. Bharathi from the South Indian Fishermen Welfare Association said: "The decision was taken unilaterally without even consulting the stakeholders, including local fishermen and association leaders. In one or two meetings held by officials, many fishermen were not in attendance and those who attended have also raised objections."

He said that the state government should first complete the deepening of estuary and keep it permanently open.

The fishermen leader added that before the onset of the northwest monsoon government must take a stand on the harbour project.

He also said that many fishermen had lost their lives during the last monsoon season as their boats capsized due to the lack of depth near the bar mouth.

The fishermen leader noted that the government before taking a final decision on the proposed harbour must call a detailed meeting of fishermen, fishermen leaders and other stakeholders at the earliest.

He also said that the harbour should not be constructed without clearing the objections raised by the fishermen leaders.

When contacted, government officials told IANS that such a decision has not been taken and that the location of the harbour is yet to be finalised.

A senior official of the state's fisheries department told IANS that funds are yet to be sanctioned for the project and a proper study will be conducted before the announcement of a fishing harbour.

The official also said that an inclusive meeting will be held with all the stakeholders, including fishermen who will be affected by the project, before a decision is announced on the construction of the harbour.