KOCHI: The Kerala university of fisheries and ocean studies (Kufos) has started the third-phase survey for the model fishing village project at Chellanam.
A door-to-door survey with a questionnaire to understand the socio-economic living standards of residents is being carried out. Ravaged by frequent sea surges and inundation, which led to residents protesting in large numbers against the lackadaisical attitude of authorities, the state government has authorized Kufos to adopt the coastal village and bring about an overall change in their livelihood.
In the interim report submitted to the government, the university states that it was looking to bring in bioshields using mangroves and other plants in the region. Aquaculture and agriculture are the two aspects that are being looked into by the university.
As part of the study, awareness programmes were conducted and different options of shore protection. Officials said that they would be working with the agriculture department and Kerala Agricultural University for revamping the agriculture sector at Chellanam. The report has also suggested re-establishment of canal and drainage systems by evacuating encroachers and unauthorized constructions, including those of the government.
The report also suggested that efforts be taken to utilize the dredged sand for beach nourishment and heaps of sand near shore waters (Holland model) for coastal protection and depth abating of the shore line water.
