Fishermen affected by Mumbai’s Versova-Bandra Sea Link project will receive compensation within two months of the Tata Institute of Social Sciences (TISS) submitting its report, Maharashtra Deputy Chief Minister Eknath Shinde said on Thursday.
Shinde announced during an online meeting with officials to review issues concerning fishing communities impacted by the infrastructure project. According to an official release, TISS is currently conducting a study to establish the criteria for compensating fishermen affected by the project.
The issue of pending compensation was raised during the meeting, following which Shinde directed officials to ensure that eligible fishermen receive their dues without further delay. He said the compensation process should be completed within two months of the submission of the TISS report.
Jetties And Other Facilities
The meeting also focused on improving fishing-related infrastructure in the Juhu-Versova area. Officials discussed proposals for developing jetties, net-repair and fixing spaces, drying yards and other facilities required by the local fishing community.
The discussions come amid wider concerns among traditional fishing communities over the impact of large coastal infrastructure projects on their livelihoods and access to fishing grounds.
The government has also asked officials to coordinate on rehabilitation measures and infrastructure requirements for fishermen affected by the sea link project.
Fishermen Plan Protest Over Desalination Plant
Meanwhile, the Maharashtra Machhimar Kruti Samiti (MMKS) has announced a protest rally on August 21 against the proposed BMC desalination plant at Manori-Gorai.
The rally will begin at 9 am from the Manori Ferry Boat Jetty and conclude with a public meeting near the proposed project site. Fishermen from several coastal areas are expected to participate.
The MMKS has raised concerns about the plant’s potential impact on marine life and fishing activity. The organisation claims the facility will draw around 500 million litres of seawater daily and produce 200 MLD of freshwater, leaving about 300 MLD of concentrated brine.
The fishermen’s group has sought clarity on brine discharge and chemical sludge disposal, citing concerns over marine biodiversity and the livelihoods of families dependent on near-shore fishing.
Source: Mid-day
