In a landmark move to bolster marine biodiversity and promote sustainable fisheries, the Andhra Pradesh government has partnered with the Kerala State Coastal Area Development Corporation (KSCADC) to adopt Kerala’s successful artificial reef model.
On Tuesday, 24 December, a Memorandum of Understanding (MoU) was signed by T Dola Shankar, Director of Andhra Pradesh Fisheries Department; PI Sheikh Pareeth, Managing Director of KSCADC; and Dr. Joe Kizhakkudan, Principal Scientist at the Central Marine Fisheries Research Institute (CMFRI).
24 Artificial Reefs to be Deployed
Under the initiative, reinforced cement concrete (RCC) artificial reef modules will be installed at 24 strategic locations along Andhra Pradesh’s coastline. These locations have been approved by the Central Government under the Pradhan Mantri Matsya Sampada Yojana (PMMSY).
The project aims to:
- Restore marine biodiversity.
- Enhance fish habitats.
- Improve the livelihoods of local fishing communities.
Kerala’s Success as a Blueprint
Officials highlighted Kerala’s successful deployment of artificial reef habitats as the inspiration for this collaboration. The Kerala initiative, which installed RCC reef modules in 42 fishing villages in Thiruvananthapuram district, led to significant improvements in fish breeding and environmental sustainability.
Expert Guidance for Implementation
With technical support from KSCADC and CMFRI, Andhra Pradesh is set to replicate this success. CMFRI will oversee the installation process, ensuring the reefs are effectively positioned to maximize ecological benefits.
This joint initiative is expected to transform marine ecosystems along the Andhra Pradesh coast, benefiting both marine life and the fishing community, while setting a benchmark for sustainable fisheries management in India.