The fishermen association of 65 villages starting from Ennore till Kovalam in Chennai passed a resolution against the shoreline re-nourishment and re-vitalization project which will be implemented by various agencies including the CMDA and the state environment department. In a meeting held last week, the fishermen have raised concerns that their livelihood is not being considered in any of the government projects taken up along the beach and coasts.
“The purpose of Coastal regulation zone authority is not being fulfilled as it is being run as a side kick to government agencies. The environmental concerns and fishermen’s livelihood are not being considered. We are not even involved in the discussions for the project,” said K Bharathi, a fishermen leader. He said that several projects are being taken up including roads, flyovers, and beautification adding, “Isn’t the entire eMarina stretch free from encroachments for walking. How much beach front area do they need?”