Addressing the reporters on Friday at Karnataka Fisheries Development Corporation office in Mangalore, he said that several fishermen and organisations have complained that increased industrial activities have been affecting their livelihood and also the fish stock in the ocean. Hence, he said that the Government is contemplating to bring in ‘fishing corridor’ in three districts meant only for fishing and fishing related activities.

Port development

He said that a Rs 19.6 crore project for Port development is in the pipeline under which Malpe, Mangalore and Honnavar ports will be developed.

He said that the layout for development of Mangalore Port is ready and the expansion work will be taken up according to the demands of the fishermen. Assistance of Central Institute of Coastal Engineering for Fisheries will be sought in development of Port.
He informed that a sum of Rs 65 crore has been estimated for development of Mangalore port, Rs 53 crore for Malpe port and Rs 65 crore for Honnavar. The works will be started off this year itself.

With regard to dredging, he said that a sum of Rs 5 crore was sanctioned during 2007-08 for dredging.

A sum of Rs 5 crore was sanctioned for 2009-10. A total of Rs 50 crore has been earmarked for dredging purpose in this budget. “Though dredging has been done at estuary, lots more is left to be done. We are looking at a permanent solution for the same and hence Government is planning to purchase a dredger. An estimation of Rs 50 crore has been sent to the Centre.”

Market development

Asnotikar said that Municipal Corporations planning to build modern, state-of the art fish markets can send in their plans to Karnataka Fisheries Development Board. He said that even if the project estimated is upto Rs 2 crore, there is scope to get about 90 per cent of the total cost from National Fisheries Development Board.

Answering a query about the responsibility of Raichur vested on him, he said that he is happy to take responsibility as District-in-Charge Minister of Raichur and he will oblige to the decision.

He said that while about one hour is enough to travel between Karwar and hubli, at present it takes about 6 hours, thanks to iron ore lorries. “I have discussed with DC and directed him to take action in this regard,” he said and added that in Bilagere region, a shipping company has been utilising Forest department land for its own use. Officials are also backing out from taking action against this.  He said that he will discuss the issue with the CM and take stern action.

Karnataka Fisheries Board Development Board Chairman Ramachandra Baikampady, Director V K Shetty, Joint Director (Fisheries) Gangadhar Maddikery were present.