The Iconic Chinese fishing nets at nearby Fort Kochi will soon get a facelift with Kerala Tourism sanctioning Rs 1.50 crore for their renovation.
The huge cantilevered fishing nets, erected between 1350 and 1450 AD by traders from the court of Kublai Khan, are set up in teak wood and bamboo poles.
However, due to the escalating costs, the local fishermen now use steel rods instead of teak wood.
Tourism secretary, Suman Billa, told PTI that the aim is to restore the "original elegance" of the Chinese nets. "The government has decided to give the capital expenditure of Rs 1.5 crore. The fishing nets would remain with the fishermen and we will restore them".
Platforms would also be built near the nets so that it would be easier for tourists to take a closer look at the nets. Also, the tourists would be able to chose from the catch which would be grilled and served, he said.
It is understood that Chinese ambassador to India and other officials visited the Chinese fishing nets 10 days ago.
