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A chain of eight modernised markets with a total outlay of Rs 16 crore will be constructed across Thiruvananthapuram district, K Babu, Minister for Fisheries, Ports and Excise, said today.
Speaking to mediapersons after laying foundation stone for the Venjarammoodu fish market, which will be part of the chain set up by the Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation (KSCADC), he added the other markets in the chain will be in Balaramapuram, Kulathur, Chirayinkeezhu, Pangode, Poovachal, Kazhakootam and Nedumangad.
These will be part of a state-wide network of 52 modern hygienic fish markets the KSCADC is setting up with support from the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB).
The single-storied 675 sft Venjarammoodu market built with Rs 2.37 crore will have amenities, including a sink for cleaning the fish, a clog-proof drain, an auction hall and 62 commercial stalls with modern facilities for cutting and cleaning the fish.
The market will also have a chill room, a flake ice unit and an effluent treatment plant.
"Once completed, the ownership of this market would be transferred to the Venjarammoodu Grama Panchayath and the income sourced from rent and auction can be used for the building's maintenance as well as other developmental activities by the Panchayat." he said.
The NFDB will provide nearly Rs 2 crore of the total cost of the market, with the remaining amount coming from the state government.
Besides these facilities, all modern fish markets in the state will have anti-skid industrial tile floors, quality plumbing and electrical works, drinking water and parking facilities.
The state fisheries department is planning and implementing Rs 530 crore worth of projects under the headship of KSCADC for the overall social-economic development of the coastal areas.
Development projects worth Rs 115 crore are being undertaken by the KSCADC in Thiruvanathapuram district. Out of this, Rs 11 crore worth projects have been completed and projects worth Rs 84 crore worth projects are in various stages. Projects worth Rs 20 crore are pending approval from the government.
