Cochin International Airport Limited (CIAL) has introduced aquaculture practices at its golf club in Nedumbassery. Collaborating with the Marine Products Export Development Authority (MPEDA) and the Rajiv Gandhi Centre for Aquaculture (RGCA), CIAL aims to implement eco-friendly and sustainable cage farming in the water bodies of its golf club.
CIAL Managing Director S Suhas highlighted the environmental benefits of aquaculture, emphasizing its reduced carbon footprint and sustainable practices. Over the past five years, the aquaculture industry has made significant strides in adopting new production systems that decrease greenhouse gas emissions, optimize freshwater usage, enhance feed management practices, and incorporate innovative farming methods.
The CIAL Golf Club features seven water bodies covering nearly 16 acres, with deep and sizable ponds that require specialized farming practices. Traditional pond culture methods are not suitable for these conditions. Cage fish farming offers a flexible and environmentally friendly solution, eliminating the need to drain water bodies while allowing for easy and cost-effective harvesting.
As part of the collaboration, MPEDA and RGCA will contribute to the project by conducting periodic disease diagnosis of fish, analyzing water quality, and providing seeds at subsidized rates from their hatchery at Vallarpadom. The pilot project will focus on species recommended by MPEDA-RGCA, including GIFT tilapia, seabass, and pearl spot.
Suhas highlighted CIAL’s commitment to sustainability and climate-friendly practices, referencing the successful implementation of total sustainability management (TSM) in the airport’s golf course. Treated water from the airport’s sewage treatment plant is utilized for water harvesting through 12 artificial lakes, exemplifying CIAL’s dedication to sustainable environmental, social, and economic outcomes.