₹55 crore proposal to expand installing artificial reef project across Kerala

The State government of Kerala has proposed a plan to expand the installation of artificial reef units off the coasts of fishing villages with a budget of ₹55 crore. The aim is to enhance fish production and increase the income of traditional fishermen. The project, under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana, involves placing artificial reefs in seabeds off the coasts of various fishing villages in phases. The strategic placement of these reefs will create optimal fishing grounds and provide habitat for marine species to thrive. Additionally, the State Fisheries department will deposit 10 lakh fingerlings of cobia and pompano in selected locations to further support fish cultivation.