T’puram: A sitting of the State Minority Commission reviewed a suo motu case related to the repeated accidents at Muthalapozhi fishing harbour. District collector informed the commission that Chandragiri dredger, which was brought from Azhikkal Port to remove sand accumulation at the harbour mouth, was damaged due to strong waves. As a result, a fresh tender will be invited to carry out dredging operations.District collector further stated that the extension work of the southern breakwater under Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana is progressing. The length of the breakwater was already increased by approximately 190m, which helped prevent sand from entering the harbour from the southern side. Once the work is completed, it is expected to provide a permanent solution to the long-standing issues at the harbour. The director of fisheries informed the commission that 2,433 fishermen who were unable to venture into the sea due to the closure of the harbour were provided financial assistance for 91 days at a daily rate of Rs 359. The commission directed the authorities concerned to complete the breakwater extension and the remaining dredging work within the stipulated time frame. The sitting was held at its headquarters court hall, in which commission chairperson A A Rasheed considered the petitions.
