Paradip Fishing Harbour Set for Transformation: Upgradation Project Launched

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Union Minister Parshottam Rupala laid the foundation stone for the upgradation of the Paradip Fishing Harbour (PFH) in Odisha on Monday. The project will cost Rs 108.91 crore and is expected to be completed in 18 months.

Modernization and Upgradation

The modernization and upgradation of the PFH will improve its hygienic conditions and make it clean, pollution-free, and aesthetically pleasing. The project will also include the construction of a new auction hall, new commercial complex, extension of quay wall, shore protection works, and renovation of the existing auction hall.

Benefits for Fishermen

The Minister for Fisheries, Animal Husbandry, and Dairying said that the modernization of the fishing harbour will improve the lives of the thousands of fishermen and allied workers who depend on the harbour for their livelihood. The modernization and value-addition activities taken up under the project will also generate new employment opportunities of skilled and unskilled nature.

Paradip Fishing Harbour

The PFH is spread across 43 acres and is one of Odisha's largest fishing harbours. It is located on the right bank of the river Mahanadi, two kilometres upstream of the river mouth in Jagatsinghpur district. The harbour was initially built to oversee 370 numbers of 10-metre vessels, 80 numbers of 13-metre vessels, and 50 numbers of 15-metre vessels, as well as traditional watercraft. Now, approximately 640 numbers of 15-metre vessels and 100 numbers of 9-metre Gill Netter FRP boats use the harbour amenities.

The upgradation of the PFH is a significant step towards improving the infrastructure of the fishing industry in Odisha. The project will benefit thousands of fishermen and allied workers and will also generate new employment opportunities.