The renovation works of the Beypore Fishing Harbour funded by the National Fisheries Development Board (NFDB) commenced in the area with the support of the Harbour Engineering Department.
Minister for Ports and Fisheries K. Babu inaugurated the works at a function held in Beypore on Thursday.
A total fund of Rs.2.99 crore would be spent for the renovation works.
Under the scheme, a new parking area near the wharf would come up. Along with this, a separate covered loading area would also be constructed.
According to officers of the Harbour Engineering Department, the works could be completed within two years. On completion, there would be better facilities for the fishermen in the existing auction hall. The number of drainages would be increased besides constructing new wells and clearing the pending electrical works.
“The project funded by the NFDB will ensure European standards at the auction hall and a clean ambience at the surrounding,” said P. Latha, Executive Engineer of Harbour Engineering Department.
She said most of the works had already been awarded after floating tenders. Ms. Latha said the tenders would be floated shortly for beginning the electrification work at the harbour and the construction of parking area.
“We have limited space in the area, which should be taken into account for developing the existing facilities,” she added.
Along with the Beypore fishing harbour, the Chombal harbour near Vadakara too would be developed to superior standards. A total fund of Rs.4.15 crore, sanctioned by the Central government, would be utilised for the undertaking.
According to officials, a major portion of the fund would be utilised for completing the drudging works at the harbour.
Mr. Babu would inaugurate the works on Friday, they added.